Exporter confidence strong

Manufacturers and exporters are increasingly bullish about foreign sales growth, according to the latest survey by Export Development Canada. The latest Trade Confidence Index (TCI) reading is 75 out of a possible 100 points, an increase of 0.2 points from the 74.8 registered in the fall of 2003. About one-third of exporters responded that their outlook for international trade opportunities was positive and almost half stated that they were projecting sales to increase. With respect to hiring, 36% of Canadian businesses surveyed said they planned to add staff in the next six months.
"The economic situation now is really as good as it gets," said the EDC senior vice-president and chief economist Stephen Poloz. "Indeed, world economic growth will moderate to a more sustainable pace next year as interest rates rise to more normal levels."
The survey suggested that the dollar remains a concern with Canadian companies, with 64% saying they view the value of the dollar as pivotal to their success in foreign markets.