Trucking slips as GDP contributor

OTTAWA — Transportation-based GDP fell in February as lower activities in manufacturing, wholesale and retail trade led to a decline in truck transportation, while lower extraction of natural gas affected pipeline transportation.

Economic activity on the whole declined 0.2 percent, continuing at a much lower pace than in the first half of 2007. Wholesale trade and manufacturing accounted for most of the decreases, while retail also fell, reports Stats Canada.

However, construction activity increased 0.2 percent, a slightly faster pace than in January. All types of construction projects moved forward, with a significant increase in apartment construction propelling residential construction.

That said, the home resale market fell considerably in February. More than half of this decrease came from Ontario where inclement weather may have played a role.