HALIFAX , CAPITAL OF THE province of Nova Scotia , is a major economic centre with a large concentration of government services and private sector companies . Major employers and economic generators include the Department of National Defence , the Halifax Shipyard and the Port of Halifax , as well as major universities .

Halifax serves as the business , banking , government and cultural centre for the Maritime region . A property boom in recent years has led to numerous new residential property developments , including the ‘ gentrification ’ of some former working-class areas . The city is home to a vibrant arts and culture community that enjoys considerable support and participation from the general population .

Halifax is famed for the quality of several of its neighbourhoods . It is also known for its high walkability , particularly on the Halifax Peninsula

where 1 in 3 residents regularly walk to work . More recently the city has also placed increased emphasis on developing bicycling infrastructure .

Halifax ' s geographical location positions it strategically between major North American , European , and Asian markets , making it an excellent location for moving goods in and out of North America and travelling to and from international destinations - by road , rail , air and sea . Meanwhile , agriculture , fishing , mining , forestry and natural gas extraction are major resource industries found in the rural areas of the municipality . Clay , shale , gold , limestone , and gypsum extraction also contribute to a mixed economy .

The oceans sector in Nova Scotia employs roughly 34,800 workers across the province and contributes $ 4.5bn , or roughly 12 % of provincial GDP . As a consequence , Halifax has a depth of specialisation in the Ocean Sector ; the city is

Halifax serves as the business , banking , government and cultural centre for the Maritime region .

home to collaborative hubs and incubators dedicated entirely to the Ocean Sector , such as COVE ( Centre for Ocean Ventures & Entrepreneurship ). Halifax also houses the Bedford Institute of Oceanography , Canada ’ s largest centre for oceans research , with 600 scientists , engineers and technicians .

Boat and ship-building contribute extensively to the economy , constructing everything from tankers and warships to the latest generation of manned and unmanned submersible vehicles from companies like Riptide . They , in turn , generate a large ecosystem of supporting organisations and research institutions .

Despite the ocean domination , the skies aren ’ t forgotten ; Aerotech Business Park sits opposite Halifax International Airport , uniting companies that service the aviation sector .

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