OTTAWA—Statistics Canada says manufacturing sales increased 1.7 per cent in November to $49.9-billion, the highest level since May 2012.

It says the largest gains were in the transportation equipment, primary metal and chemical industries.

Sales rose in 12 of 21 industries monitored, representing about two-thirds of the manufacturing sector.

Durable goods sales increased 2.7 per cent to $25.5-billion while non-durable goods sales gained 0.8 per cent to $24.4-billion.

Manufacturing rose in five provinces, led by Ontario, wher sales were up 3.8 per cent to $23-billion.

Sales were down 1.8 per cent in Alberta and 0.9 per cent in Quebec.