SA economy growing says treasurer

South Australia is defying global forces to create jobs and grow the state's economy, Treasurer Tom Koutsantonis says.

The treasurer says figures released on Wednesday show the economy grew by 1.8 per cent in the December quarter, compared to the same period the previous year, while retail turnover is up 2.3 per cent annually and 11,300 jobs have been added over the past 12 months.

"This government is getting on with the work of making sure South Australia is a place where business can invest and grow," Mr Koutsantonis told state parliament.