RECORD MANUFACTURING LEVELS IN APRIL

Saskatchewan's manufacturing shipments totalled $1.1 billion in April 2012, a record for the month of April according to a report released by Statistics Canada today. Shipments increased by 15.7 per cent in April when compared to April 2011, the second highest percentage increase among the provinces and well ahead of the 5.8 per cent rise nationally.

"Saskatchewan has what the rest of the world wants and needs, and manufacturing businesses across the province are working hard to ensure those products keep rolling out," Economy Minister Bill Boyd said. "Manufacturing is a cornerstone of our economy that contributes to our expanding export market and creates jobs and other opportunities in communities across the province."

While seven provinces had a decrease in manufacturing shipments between March 2012 and April 2012, Saskatchewan actually increased by 2.1 per cent. It was the third best performance in the nation during that period.

"With a vibrant and thriving manufacturing sector that includes a wide variety of goods ranging from food to farm equipment, we are in a good position to see continued growth," Boyd said. "Saskatchewan's economy is moving forward, and we are building a foundation that will ensure our province has a prosperous future."

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For more information, contact:

Deb Young
Economy
Regina
Phone: 306-787-6315
Email: deb.young@enterprisesask.ca