Historical Provincial GDP

Question

A researcher would like to have provincial GDP for the period 1950-1981 – preferably in quarterly form. Can you direct me to a source for these stats?

Answer

We have looked into your question below and have obtained confirmation that quarterly GDP estimates by province are not available. The division that disseminates provincial GSD estimates provided the following explanation and suggestions in response to your question:

" The Provincial Economic Accounts are only produced on an annual basis and quarterly GDP estimates by province are not available.

Secondly, provincial GDP estimates have been calculated starting with the reference year 1961 and no estimate exists at Statistics Canada prior to that year. It is important to note that the methodologies to derive the provincial estimates for the period 1981 to date are different than those that were used for the period 1961 to 1980. Those differences are explained in the document:

Latest Developments in the Canadian Economic Accounts (www.statcan.gc.ca/pub/13-605-x/2003001/chrono/4066065-eng.htm).

The provincial GDP estimates for the years 1961 to 1981, using the old methodologies, are presented in the catalogue 13-213S. You can also find the 1961 to 1980 estimates in CANSIM table 384-0015."

I hope that this is helpful. Please don't hesitate to contact us if you have any other questions.