Structure économique

The economic growth

Laval owes its economic growth to a proactive attitude, well thought-out urban planning, sustained financial and fiscal efforts, and regional and international openness. Its success has made it a beacon of the Quebec and Canadian economies. The city-region is also advantageously located in Quebec’s geographic and economic heartland. With its 384,000 residents and vibrant regional economy, Laval plays a pivotal role in the Greater Montreal economy.

Investments in 2010
Investments, all sectors combined, were just over $1.3 billion in 2009. Institutional investments rose sharply, to $438 million. The housing sector, supported by strong demand and a rapidly growing population, had the biggest impact on these results, representing 48.1% of total investments, followed by the always robust industrial sector at 30.9%.

R&D plays an important role in the Laval economy

Research and development spending says a lot about the direction of the scientific and high-knowledge economies in Laval.

In fact, the magnitude of R&D spending places the Laval CMA in second place in Quebec when expressed as a percentage of 2003 GDP. Industrial intra-muros R&D expenditures by Laval businesses have been on the rise in recent years. Accordingly, between 2000 and 2004, industrial R&D expenditures increased 49.7% in Laval against 15% in Quebec.

Activity sectors

 the City’s efforts to diversify its economy are beginning to pay off. Expanding industrial parks, new store openings and the construction of head offices all make it possible to employ a growing number of Laval residents.

An analysis of Laval’s activity sectors reveals that the secondary and services sectors play a big role in the City’s economy. The Quebec economy is dominated by the services sector and in Laval it accounts for the lion’s share.