JULY MANUFACTURING NUMBERS SEVEN TIMES HIGHER THAN NATIONAL AVERAGE

July manufacturing sales figures were released by Statistics Canada today and show Saskatchewan had an increase of 15.4 per cent when compared with July of 2011, the second highest percentage among the provinces and more than seven times the 2.3 per cent recorded nationally.

"Saskatchewan has a manufacturing sector that is thriving," Economy Minister Bill Boyd said. "We have innovative products and more importantly innovative businesses that have what it takes to compete in today's world markets."

On a monthly basis, manufacturing shipments were up by 1.7 per cent in July 2012 over June 2012, the second highest percentage growth in Canada. Only five provinces had positive growth over this period, and nationally, manufacturing sales declined by 1.5 per cent.

"There are such a wide-range of products produced in our province, that includes food, farm equipment, fertilizer and oil and gas," Boyd said. "It is the diversity and quality of manufactured goods along with our positive business climate that will continue to support Saskatchewan's positive growth well into our future."

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For more information, contact:

Deb Young
Economy
Regina
Phone: 306-787-4765
Email: deb.young@enterprisesask.ca