TORONTO, April 5 (Reuters) - Canadian economic activity

expanded at its fastest pace in one year in March as a measure

of employment climbed, Ivey Purchasing Managers Index (PMI) data

showed on Friday.

The seasonally adjusted index rose to 57.5 from 53.9 in

February, posting its highest level since March 2023.

The Ivey PMI measures the month to month variation in

economic activity as indicated by a panel of purchasing managers

from across Canada. A reading above 50 indicates an increase in

activity.

The gauge of employment rose to an adjusted 55.4 from 50.8

in February, while the prices paid index was at 57.9, dipping

from 60.4.

The unadjusted PMI rose to 63.0 from 56.3.