Due to the rapidly changing nature of things, this blog is updated periodically.  
Last updated: March 11, 2025 

Ongoing trade tensions between the United States and Canada, including tariffs on various goods and materials, continue to impact businesses across multiple sectors in Canada and Winnipeg. The Winnipeg Chamber of Commerce is committed to supporting our members by providing up-to-date information, resources, and advocacy to navigate these challenges.  

Latest Updates on U.S. Tariffs 

• Current Tariff Rates and Affected Goods: As of March 4, 2025, the U.S. has imposed a 25% tariff on all goods imported from Canada, excluding energy products, which are subject to a 10% tariff. As of March 6, tariffs are currently paused until April 2, 2025 
• Canadian Government Response: In retaliation, Canada has announced a $155 billion tariff package targeting U.S. goods, with the first phase imposing 25% tariffs on $30 billion worth of U.S. imports, effective February 4, 2025.  As of March 6, Canada will not proceed with the second wave of tariffs on ($125-billion) of U.S. products until April 2, with the first phase proceeding as planned.
  • Canada announces counter tariffs in response to unjustified U.S. tariffs
  • List of products from the United States subject to 25 per cent tariffs effective March 4, 2025
  • Process for requesting remission of tariffs that apply on certain goods from the U.S.

• The Cost of Tariffs Report: To support Chamber members during uncertainties in the Canada-U.S. trade relationship, we conducted a business impact survey in collaboration with the chamber network to assess the concerns of Manitoban businesses. 

Resources & Support 

Below is a variety of resources to help members mitigate the impact of tariffs. 

Federal Support Initiatives: The Canadian government is stepping up to support businesses impacted by tariffs with a major investment through three key initiatives: 

• Trade Impact Program (Export Development Canada) – A $5 billion fund over two years to help Canadian exporters reach new markets and manage economic risks like currency fluctuations, non-payment losses, and cash flow challenges. 

• Business Development Bank of Canada Loans – $500 million in low-interest loans for businesses affected by tariffs, including those in supply chains. Advisory services on financial management and market diversification will also be available. 

• Farm Credit Canada Financing – $1 billion in new funding to support the agriculture and food sector, ensuring businesses can adapt and continue delivering high-quality Canadian products. 

• Canada Small Business Financing Program: Helps small businesses secure loans by sharing the risk with lenders, making financing more accessible through financial institutions. 

• Trade Commissioner Services: Supports business growth and diversification by connecting companies with funding opportunities and support programs. 

Provincial Support Initiatives: The Manitoba government provides support for businesses and workers affected by potential U.S. tariffs through economic strategies, market diversification resources, and the “Support Manitoba. Buy Local.” campaign, offering assistance via a dedicated tariff response hotline and email. 

• Extended Tax Payment Deadlines: Tax payment deadlines for Manitoba businesses are extended until June 20, 2025. 
• Support Manitoba. Buy Local.
  The Support Manitoba. Buy Local. initiative encourages Manitobans to support local businesses, farmers, and producers by purchasing Manitoba-made products and services, providing resources for consumers and businesses while offering assistance for those impacted by U.S. tariffs. 
• Export Support Programming
  Manitoba’s Export Support Programming provides financial assistance to small and medium-sized businesses to expand into new markets through trade missions, tradeshows, and international buyer programs, helping companies offset costs, develop business relationships, and increase export sales. 

World Trade Centre Winnipeg: WTC Winnipeg offers training, resources, and expert advice to help businesses navigate international markets.  

Action Plan for Businesses 

• Assess Your Exposure: Review your supply chain and cost structure for tariff-related risks. Identify which products or materials are affected and quantify the potential impact on your operations.  

• Seek Expert Advice: Consult with trade specialists and legal advisors to understand the implications of tariffs on your business and explore possible mitigation strategies.  

• Engage with the Chamber: Participate in discussions, policy advocacy, and resource-sharing initiatives. The Chamber offers a platform to voice concerns and collaborate on collective actions.  

• Stay Informed: Subscribe to our updates to stay updated with the evolving trading relationship and available support.  

Advocating for Manitoba Businesses Amid U.S. Trade Uncertainty 

Trade uncertainties and potential U.S. tariffs pose significant challenges for Manitoba businesses. At The Chamber, we are committed to ensuring our members’ concerns are heard at all levels of government, driving forward meaningful action to protect local businesses. 

Through our Cost of Tariffs Report, we surveyed Manitoba businesses to assess the real impact of trade disruptions. The findings, paired with actionable recommendations, strengthen our advocacy efforts—providing policymakers with data-driven insights on how tariffs affect our local economy. 

We have taken Winnipeg businesses’ concerns directly to municipal, provincial, and federal leaders, pushing for strategic solutions to minimize trade disruptions and safeguard economic stability. 

Federal: The Chamber, as part of the Canadian Global Cities Council (CGCC), met with Minister François-Philippe Champagne to discuss the broader economic impact of tariffs and explore strategies to protect Canadian businesses. Loren Remillard, our President and CEO also participated in a roundtable discussion with Minister Terry Duguid at PrairiesCan, focusing on trade relations and border issues that directly affect Manitoba companies.

Provincial: We briefed Premier Wab Kinew and Minister Sala on the pressing trade concerns of our business community. By maintaining an ongoing dialogue with policymakers, we reinforce the need for policies that mitigate tariff-related risks and create new market opportunities for Manitoba businesses.

Municipal: We presented our findings from the Cost of Tariffs Report to City Council, reinforcing the local impact of trade uncertainties and advocating for policies that support business resilience.