April data signalled another robust overall expansion in operating conditions at the Canadian manufacturing sector, with the latest result extending the period of growth to ten consecutive months. Despite a surge in COVID-19 cases and a series of tightening restrictions, output and new orders rose sharply, although the rates of growth moderated from those seen in March. Firms responded to the sustained increase in demand by adding to their workforces, however capacity pressures remained evident with backlogs rising markedly. Meanwhile, port congestion and pandemic restrictions led to another lengthening in supplier ... (full story)