Budget In Brief

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Budget In Brief - (PDF size 1,609 k)

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Manitoba’s Growing Economy

Manitoba’s strong, stable economy has grown steadily over the past eight years. This growth has created opportunities for our young people, our families and our businesses. Budget 2008 builds on this stable foundation and positions Manitoba to meet future challenges in the global economy.

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"The Manitoba economy will fire on all
cylinders again this year."

Source: Conference Board of Canada, March 2008

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• Manitoba’s economy grew by 3% in 2007 – outpacing Canada for the second consecutive year.
  
  
• Employment grew 1.6% last year as the employment and labour force participation rates reached all-time highs.
  
  
• Average weekly earnings grew 4.2% in 2007 – the highest increase in almost 20 years.
  
  
• In 2007, Manitoba had the highest population increase in 25 years.
  
  
• Housing starts were up 14% last year, well above the modest gains for Canada.
  
  
• Private investment grew 9.5% in 2007 and Manitoba will lead the country with a 22% jump in 2008.
  
  
• Farm receipts increased 18% for 2007 – almost double the national growth.
  
  
• Manitoba’s foreign exports increased 13% last year, while Canada’s exports grew by only 2%.