SASKATCHEWAN CITIES COMPETITIVE

KPMG released a study yesterday that confirms Saskatchewan cities compare positively to other jurisdictions when it comes to the cost of doing business.

The international cost-competitiveness survey compared cities in 11 countries including Canada. Saskatoon, Regina, Prince Albert and Moose Jaw ranked favourably in the report when compared with cities in North America, Europe, Australia and Japan.

Canadian cities remain the most cost competitive in the 2004 study, virtually little change from a previous study conducted in 2002. Saskatoon ranked second in the North American mid-west major cities, with an index of 89.4, just slightly behind Edmonton (89.2).

KPMG included in the analysis several non-featured cities in which Prince Albert ranked first in the mid-west with an index score of 87.6. Moose Jaw was tied for third with a score of 88.3 along with Brandon, Grande Prairie and Lethbridge. Regina ranked ninth place with a score of 90.5.

"We recognize that making sure Saskatchewan has an attractive business climate that can compete with international jurisdictions is a must to ensure our economic success," Crown Management Board Minister Pat Atkinson said. "Investment attraction is a priority that we must continue, and the results of this study will support our efforts to market the province to the rest of the world."

"The fact that we continue to rank as one of the most cost-competitive jurisdictions is proof-positive that Saskatchewan cities can compete not only at a national level, but on a global scale as a great place to do business."

Compared with the 2002 study, Saskatchewan and Canadian cities maintained the rating as the most cost-competitive jurisdiction.

KPMG's study was completed in partnership with Investments Partnerships Canada, various provincial and civic governments. The survey completed by KPMG was a follow-up to previous studies that looked at international locations and compared the cost of doing business. The 2004 study included 17 industries and over 121 cities in the major section, including Saskatoon, Regina, Moose Jaw and Prince Albert.

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For More Information, Contact:

Janet Peters Industry and Resources Regina Phone: (306) 787-8277