The following chart shows economic growth in Canada on a per capita basis during the ‘boom’ years of 1999 to 2008. I put this chart together to illustrate an important point. The government sector grew strongly during that decade but there are wide variances from province to province in the relationship between private and public sector GDP growth. Predictably, AB, SK and NL grew public spending significantly faster than the national average over the period but that was in large part a response to the booming private sector economy. New Brunswick, by contrast, grew its public sector spending in spite weak private sector GDP growth over the period.
GDP Per Capita Growth 1999-2008
| Government Sector | Rest of the Economy | |
| Alberta | 67% | 112% |
| Saskatchewan | 65% | 127% |
| New Brunswick | 61% | 42% |
| Newfoundland and Labrador | 58% | 221% |
| Prince Edward Island | 58% | 45% |
| Nova Scotia | 52% | 50% |
| Manitoba | 50% | 54% |
| Canada | 49% | 52% |
| Ontario | 47% | 27% |
| Quebec | 44% | 37% |
| British Columbia | 44% | 54% |
Source: Based on Statistics Canada CANSIM Table 381-0015 Provincial gross domestic product (GDP) at basic prices in current dollars.
Had a walk through the snow in downtown Fredericton this morning, public spending capital of New Brunswick. Many signs in windows: No to shale gas; no to highway tolls. We should re-name the place N
@Coypu
rename the place No Brunswick.
Hi there,
Finding your GDP Per Capita Growth 1999-2008 table really interesting and informative. Any chance you have an updated version that shows growth after 2008? In particular, I’m interested in NL and the role the private sector plays in economic development and growth.
Thanks!