FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Winnipeg, MB – July 21, 2026 – The Manitoba Chambers of Commerce is deeply concerned by the United States government’s decision to impose new 50% tariffs on Canadian goods. This latest escalation in trade tensions once again creates unnecessary uncertainty for businesses, workers, and communities on both sides of the border.
The United States is Manitoba’s largest trading partner, supporting thousands of jobs and billions of dollars in annual cross-border trade. Manitoba businesses have built integrated supply chains with American partners over decades, and these relationships have benefited consumers, businesses, and workers in both countries.
“Tariffs are taxes that ultimately increase costs, reduce competitiveness, and create uncertainty for businesses making investment and hiring decisions,” said Chuck Davidson, President & CEO of the Manitoba Chambers of Commerce. “At a time when both countries should be focused on strengthening North American competitiveness, these unnecessary measures move us in the wrong direction.”
The Manitoba Chambers of Commerce is calling on the Government of Canada and the Government of Manitoba to continue working collaboratively with U.S. counterparts to seek a timely resolution while providing meaningful support to businesses and sectors directly affected by these new measures.
The Chamber also encourages governments to:
- Pursue every available diplomatic avenue to restore stable and predictable trade.
- Accelerate efforts to reduce internal barriers to trade within Canada.
- Expand access to new international markets to reduce reliance on any single export destination.
- Provide targeted support for businesses facing significant disruption and increased costs.
- Continue investing in infrastructure and policies that improve Manitoba’s global competitiveness.
The economic relationship between Canada and the United States remains one of the most successful and integrated trading partnerships in the world. Manitoba businesses want certainty, stability, and a rules-based trading environment that allows companies to invest, grow, and create jobs.
The Manitoba Chambers of Commerce will continue working with the Canadian Chamber of Commerce, provincial chambers across the country, and all levels of government to advocate for policies that protect Manitoba businesses and strengthen Canada’s economic future.
