The ISM Manufacturing PMI for the United States held steady at 52.7 in April 2026, matching its highest reading since August 2022 but coming in below market expectations of 53.0. New orders accelerated (54.1 vs. 53.5 in March), and supplier delivery times lengthened further (60.6 vs. 58.9). In contrast, production grew at a slower pace (53.4 vs. 55.1), and employment declined at the steepest rate in four months (46.4 vs. 48.7).
Prices rose at their fastest pace since April 2022, driven by higher oil and diesel costs associated with the conflict in the Middle East. Susan Spence, Chair of the ISM Manufacturing Business Survey Committee, noted that sentiment among panelists remained mixed in the second month of the Iran War. Of all comments, 31% were positive and 69% negative, a ratio of roughly 1 to 2.2. The war was cited in 47% of responses, while tariffs were mentioned in 18%. Some panelists referred to both issues in a single comment, often expressing conflicting views.
