The economic growth of Quebec continues to be modest, with Real GDP expanding by a soft 1.2% in 2013. Looking forward, the economic outlook seems positive, with anticipated growth rates of 1.9% for 2014 and 2.3% for 2015. The economy continues to rely on an improving export sector, which recorded a healthy 3.7% growth in 2013. Seasonally adjusted manufacturing sales rose 5% from Q4 2013 as well. On the other hand, employment growth remains limited and led to a marginal drop in the unemployment rate to 7.6% in 2013 from 7.8% in 2012. The housing market continues to be sluggish.
Housing starts plunged by 20.3% in 2013, while the volume of existing home sales dropped by 7.9%. The impact of the recent win of the Liberal Party on the economy of Quebec has yet to be seen, with a promised a budget surplus by 2015-2016, while maintaining spending growth under 3%.
Source :Cushman & Wakefield