Thank you to the Chamber Network
The chamber network is committed to advocating for policies that support our business community.
In a united effort to represent businesses in ongoing discussions about tariffs and the Canada-U.S. trading relationship, Chambers across Manitoba asked for feedback from businesses like yours. This information helped us understand the real-world impact of ongoing tariff negotiations.
Originally developed by The Winnipeg Chamber, the survey will help shape our collective advocacy efforts and ensure policymakers have the insights needed to support affected businesses.
Thank you to the Chambers across Manitoba who came together to support local businesses.
Executive Summary
Manitoba businesses are navigating a period of heightened uncertainty as escalating trade tensions between the U.S. and Canada create financial and operational challenges. The Winnipeg Chamber of Commerce’s Business Impact Survey – How Are Tariffs Affecting Your Business? confirms that these disruptions are already impacting businesses across sectors.
Key Findings:
- 62% of Manitoba businesses have already experienced or anticipate negative effects from U.S. tariffs.
- For most businesses, the financial burden is the primary concern with 72% expecting increased costs or reduced revenue
- 43% of businesses have yet to take action, citing uncertainty.
- Top business priorities include stronger advocacy (47%), faster dispute resolution (44%), and targeted tax relief (41%).
The survey found that 62% of Manitoba businesses have already experienced or anticipate negative effects from U.S. tariffs. Manufacturing, transportation, and wholesale/retail trade are among the most vulnerable industries, facing rising costs, supply chain disruptions, and shrinking market competitiveness.
72% of respondents expect increased costs or reduced revenue, 44% anticipate losing customers or competitiveness, and 35% foresee operational challenges such as supply chain delays. Workforce implications are also emerging, with 22% of businesses expecting layoffs or hiring freezes.
Despite these challenges, 43% of businesses have yet to take action, largely due to uncertainty about how the trade landscape will evolve. Some companies are pivoting—34% are sourcing materials from non-U.S. suppliers, 25% are engaging in policy advocacy, and 17% are absorbing costs without operational changes—but many remain in a holding pattern.
The business community is calling for stronger advocacy with U.S. officials (47%), faster trade dispute resolution mechanisms (44%), and targeted tax relief for impacted industries (41%). Above all, Manitoba’s economy needs stability, and clarity to ensure businesses can plan for growth, rather than disruption.
The Winnipeg Chamber of Commerce, alongside the Chamber network across Manitoba is committed to ensuring business voices are heard. As trade uncertainty continues, we must all work collaboratively—government, businesses, and industry partners—to support market diversification, implement effective policies, and create a resilient economy. A clear and forward-thinking trade strategy is essential for Manitoba’s long-term economic resilience.
This survey analysis was conducted by Dr. Aynslie Hinds, whom The Winnipeg Chamber of Commerce contracts for our evaluation projects. With expertise in quantitative research, statistics, and program evaluation, Dr. Hinds provided a rigorous analysis of the survey data, offering key insights into how tariffs are affecting Manitoba businesses. Her expertise ensures that our findings are data-driven, actionable, and support informed decision-making for the business community.
