Texas Economic Activity Suddenly Contracts in March; Outlook Worsens Due to COVID-19 via Dallas Fed

The economic downturn in Texas has begun, recent data suggest. The coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak initially affected manufacturers and retailers with supply lines in China. The virus’ subsequent arrival in the U.S. has produced a severe drop-off in demand for large parts of the service sector.

Some of the demand declines have intensified due to public health measures, such as social distancing and shelter-in-place policies. Additionally, record-low oil prices and the prospect of sustained depressed levels in the energy sector will further slow growth in Texas.

Before the COVID-19 outbreak in the U.S., economic activity in Texas had broadly improved. Service sector revenue and manufacturing production increased in January and February.

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