The manufacturing industry includes 600 businesses in our province and directly accounts for about seven percent of total employment. The value of manufacturing shipments for the first eleven months of 2007 was approximately $4.9 billion.  The industry is valued at five percent of provincial gross domestic product, contributing to economic growth in both rural and urban areas.

The department works closely with industry, economic development groups, the federal and provincial governments to develop and implement strategies that support the growth and diversification of strategic sectors. A research-based approach to development has led to a focus on sub-sectors likely to experience growth opportunities nationally and internationally.

Sectoral development activities include:
   staff were instrumental in the formation of the boat building industry
     sector group, Canadian Manufacturers and Exporters association;
  targeted assistance to industry to participate in trade shows;
  training programs developed with partner groups;
  in the building products sector, staff assisted with formation of
     consortia to access export markets, as well as facilitating training and
     information sessions;
  compiling a profile of opportunities and challenges in the metalworking
     industry; and
  work on public and private sector procurement to assist industry
     in accessing government and large company purchasing.

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