Machinery and electrical sectors are expected to continue growing, though at a much slower pace in 2001 than in 2002. Job growth in 2001 is expected to slow to roughly one-half the rate of 2000, and then return to a rate of 1.5 percent in 2001. Arizona can expect favorable trade relationships with Mexico over the forecast horizon. This is especially significant considering the latest figures provided by the Arizona Department of Commerce. While Mexico is not the only country with which Arizona engages in a healthy trade relationship, that relationship has been somewhat overshadowed lately with events transpiring in Japan, Europe and elsewhere.
Mining is forecast to continue slowly paring jobs over the two-year horizon.
The total impact to mining industry employment will be to trim 600 jobs over the next two years. Growing inventories further exacerbate industry pricing pressures on the global markets. Technology and innovation are, and have been, the other pressures, adding to increased productivity at the expense of jobs. Though to some varied extent, mining operations still require human skills and knowledge. Nevertheless, much has changed in this industry.