Canada's export diversification drives construction boom

Canada's economy is experiencing a significant pivot as a commercial construction boom, led by export diversification, offsets a cooling housing market. Non-residential construction surged 12% in the first quarter, driven by major projects including AI data centers and critical mineral processing plants. Cross-border supply chain shifts are creating new industrial hubs nationwide, with BC port upgrades and Alberta energy infrastructure driving growth in the West. The boom has pushed construction employment to record highs, creating the strongest job market in a decade.