We may be under pressure from U.S. imposed tariffs, but the Canadian economy is gaining momentum regardless. That’s according to the latest RBC Economic Outlook Report. RBC says the second half of 2017 was sluggish and the first quarter of this year was weak, but the economy has strengthened and could be on the upswing for the rest of the year. What’s behind this? An increase in consumer spending, wage growth and business investment. RBC Economics expects real GDP to average 2.0 per cent this year and 1.8 per cent next year. Things are even rosier out west. The western provinces are expected to lead in economic growth this year with growth in Saskatchewan, Alberta, and B.C. expected to hit 2.4 per cent. Saskatchewan will be buoyed by positive returns in potash production and agriculture.