Metropolitan Outlook 1: Economic Insights into 25 Canadian Metropolitan Economies: Spring 2003

This publication focuses on the metropolitan economies of Halifax, Quebec City, Montreal, Ottawa-Gatineau, Toronto, Winnipeg, Regina, Calgary, Edmonton, Vancouver, and Victoria.

Document Highlights

Halifax’s economy will rebound this year, as real gross domestic product (GDP) is forecast to expand by 2.8 per cent.

Fuelled by strong gains in personal disposable income and a healthy tourism industry, the services sector should carry Quebec City’s economy this year.

Montreal will enjoy another year of solid economic growth.

After two disappointing years, Ottawa’s economy is expected to show renewed vigour in 2003.

Toronto will once again rank as one of Canada’s fastest-growing CMAs.

A revitalized goods sector and stable growth in the services sector are expected to drive activity in Winnipeg this year.

Regina’s economy is expected to bounce back in 2003.

Higher oil and gas prices will boost both the Calgary and Edmonton economies this year.

Vancouver’s economy is expected to build on last year’s growth, with real GDP increasing by 2.8 per cent this year.

Continued restructuring of the public sector will limit GDP growth in Victoria.