NEW VEHICLE SALES RISE IN MARCH

Thanks to a strong economy, Saskatchewan people are buying more new vehicles than almost anywhere in Canada according to Statistics Canada today.

New motor vehicle sales in the province increased at the second highest percentage rate in the nation in the month of March 2008 when compared with March 2007 (seasonally unadjusted). Saskatchewan had an increase of 17.6 per cent, slightly below the 18.3 per cent recorded for Nova Scotia. Nationally, new vehicle sales dropped by 0.6 per cent.

"The advantages of having a strong economy is definitely reaching the homes of Saskatchewan people, and allowing them to have the financial ability to make large purchases," Enterprise and Innovation Minister Lyle Stewart said. "When Saskatchewan people can realize the joys that go along with economic prosperity, it confirms that we are making gains in becoming a better place to live, and that is what it is all about."

On a seasonally adjusted basis, Saskatchewan's vehicle sales were up 7.7 per cent from February to March 2008, the second highest percentage increase amongst the provinces. British Columbia had an 8.1 per cent increase over the same period. Nationally, vehicle sales dropped 0.5 per cent.

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For more information, contact:

Deb Young
Enterprise and Innovation
Regina
Phone: 306-787-1691
Email: Deb.Young@gov.sk.ca