Saskatoon is at the top of the charts and not for the first time.

According to a recent Conference Board of Canada report, the city will lead the country in growth this year at a rate of 3.6 per cent.

By comparison, Regina will have growth of 2.7 per cent, Calgary 3.5 per cent and Winnipeg at 2.4 per cent.

The Board report points to the mining sector as a factor in Saskatchewan's growth - that sector is set to have an expansion of 5.8 per cent and 7.7 per cent next year is forecast.

Saskatoon's manufacturing sector is forecast to shake off four years of shrinkage to expand 3.9 per cent in 2012. Even with this growth, the level of activity in the sector will be eight per cent smaller than at its 2007 peak.

The board also says another good year awaits Saskatoon's construction industry. Output is slated to advance 6.2 per cent this year, following 5.5 per cent growth in 2011. A thriving economy has boosted demand for new office space and infrastructure, while surging population growth has increased housing needs.

gbauman@rawlco.com

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