WHOLESALE TRADE NUMBERS STRONG IN SASKATCHEWAN

Saskatchewan's wholesale trade numbers continue to be strong according to the latest report by Statistics Canada released today. Wholesale trade totalled $1.9 billion in July, up 10.2 per cent from July 2011 and landing Saskatchewan in third place among the provinces.

"Movement and sales of goods are an indication of consumer and business confidence, and a robust economy," Economy Minister Bill Boyd said. "This year over year growth in wholesale trade is proof that Saskatchewan is moving forward."

Building materials and supplies saw the greatest year over year increase, jumping 16.5 per cent (seasonally unadjusted) from July 2011 to July 2012. Farm products were a close second, increasing 14.8 per cent (seasonally unadjusted) during the same time period.

"Our province's construction sector is growing at an incredible rate to meet the demands of new families for new homes, and our agricultural sector is predicted by private forecasters to have a very good year with a harvest that is ahead of schedule," Boyd said. "It is no wonder that these two industries topped the charts."

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For more information, contact:

Shanna Schulhauser
Economy
Regina
Phone: 306-787-5582
Email: shanna.schulhauser@enterprisesask.ca