The Saskatchewan economy made gains in both manufacturing and new motor vehicle sales according to two reports released by Statistics Canada today. Manufacturing shipments were up 20.5 per cent in February 2012 over February 2011, the second highest percentage increase among the provinces. New motor vehicle sales were up 19 per cent in February when compared with February last year, the second highest increase among the provinces.

“The early economic indicators for 2012 are showing Saskatchewan as an economic leader in Canada, just as many major forecasters have predicted,” Enterprise Minister Jeremy Harrison said. “Our manufacturing industry is seeing strong growth, creating new jobs and opportunities for people across the province.”

On a monthly basis manufacturing shipments were up 2.9 per cent in February 2012 when compared to January 2012, the highest gain in the nation. New motor vehicle sales in the province jumped by 2.6 per cent in February. That was the highest percentage increase in Canada, and well ahead of the 6.7 per cent decline on a national basis.

“New vehicle sales are proof of the confidence Saskatchewan consumers have both in their personal finances and in the state of the provincial economy,” Harrison said.