Shortages of workers and subcontractors are common in Minnesota and eastern North Dakota and South Dakota cities. As in recent reports, residential construction is strong in most urban areas. Office building in Minneapolis is at the highest level in 11 years. Manufacturing Most manufacturing firms remain busy, but only slight growth is seen overall. Export sales are reportedly down for many firms.
Firms making semiconductor-related products also face slack demand.
Printing continues strong, and demand for construction machinery is booming. Auto component firms idled by strikes in early fall have resumed full production. Medical device manufacturers continue to grow. General machining and metal finishing shops report mixed conditions, with some continuing a full output but others slowing a bit. Crops were excellent in virtually the entire district, but prices for all grains and oilseeds as well as cattle and hogs are at low levels.