P.E.I. forecast to lead Atlantic Canada in economic growth

P.E.I. will lead the Atlantic region in economic growth, says the Conference Board of Canada, but it will be at the front of a relatively weak field.

The conference board forecasts a growth of 1.8 per cent in 2017 for the Island, largely on the strength of the province's tourism and manufacturing sectors.

The New Brunswick economy is forecast to grow by 1.0 per cent, with slowing business investment.

Nova Scotia's is expected to grow by just 0.5 per cent. While shipbuilding in Halifax is providing a boost, the construction industry is expected to decline following the completion of some major projects.

The Newfoundland and Labrador economy is forecast to be the only province that will shrink, down 3.0 per cent.

The conference board says the region's economy as a whole is hampered by an aging population, which it says is limiting growth in the labour supply.

Alberta and Saskatchewan are expected to lead the provinces in economic growth this year.

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