OTTAWA, March 7 (Reuters) - Canada's economy gained a net 1,100 jobs in February, entirely in part-time work, and the jobless rate held at 6.6%, Statistics Canada data showed on Friday.

Employment in the goods producing sector fell by a net 19,500 jobs, largely in utilities. The services sector was up by a net 20,600 positions, led by wholesale and retail trade, as well as finance, insurance, real estate, rental and leasing.

Feb 2025 Jan 2025

Jobs gain/loss +1,100 +76,000

full-time -19,700 +35,200

part-time +20,800 +40,900

Unemployment rate 6.6% 6.6%

Participation 65.3% 65.5%

Labor force 22.467 mln 22.484 mln

Feb 2025 Feb 2024 % change

Avg hourly wage C$36.94 C$35.53 +4.0

NOTE: Analysts surveyed by Reuters had forecast an increase of 20,000 jobs in February, and for the unemployment rate to rise to 6.7%. Hourly wage figures are for permanent employees.

Keywords: CANADA ECONOMY/EMPLOYMENT

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https://www.reuters.com/markets/canada-gains-net-1100-jobs-february-jobless-rate-holds-66-2025-03-07/