Flash estimate: Canadian factory sales seen down 3.3% in January

By Tahani Elghazaly
Published February 24, 2026

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Statistics Canada’s advance indicator suggests manufacturing sales likely fell 3.3% in January from December, pointing to a weaker start for industrial activity in early 2026.

The agency said the largest declines were in transportation equipment and machinery. Reuters noted the flash estimate is based on a 71.9% weighted response rate, below the 12-month average of 92.9%, meaning the figure could be revised when the full survey results are published.

In December, manufacturing sales rose 0.6% to C$71.0 billion, while total sales were down 1.1% year over year, underscoring continued volatility in the sector.

Statistics Canada said detailed January data will be released on March 13, 2026