Development Minister Don MacKinnon commented today on the Globe and Mail's recent economic ranking of the Canadian provinces, with Prince Edward Island placing second overall. Prince Edward Island has moved from eighth place to second in the last six months.
The ranking is based on seven economic indicators including: manufacturing shipments, employment, capital spending plans, retail sales, wholesale trade, housing starts and GDP growth forecasts. Prince Edward Island led in three of the seven categories.
"This is yet another indication of how strong our economy is in Prince Edward Island," said the Minister. "As a government, we have been working to take advantage of this strong economic climate, ensuring that the policies and programs are in place to allow for continued investment in the province. I credit Island businesses, and Islanders in general, for demonstrating their confidence in the economy and in having the knowledge and skills to compete in the global marketplace."
This is the Globe and Mail's fourth semiannual Report on Business (ROB) ranking of provincial economies. The April 2000 ranking placed Alberta first overall with 54.5 points, Prince Edward Island second with 53 points and New Brunswick third with 48.5 points.
For the Globe and Mail's story on Monday, April 24, "Alberta, PEI top economic ranking" visit: http://theglobeandmail.com