Manitoba has become one of the first provinces to eliminate internal trade barriers after passing groundbreaking legislation with rare all-party support, positioning the province ahead of a federal deadline to achieve free trade across Canada.
The Manitoba legislature passed Bill 47, the Fair Trade in Canada (Internal Trade Mutual Recognition) Act, on Monday with backing from both government and opposition members. The bill removes trade barriers for goods and services between Manitoba and other Canadian jurisdictions.
“Everyone listened to the business community and worked across party lines because we know how important this bill is,” said Business, Mining, Trade and Job Creation Minister Jamie Moses. “We all agree that this is a win for Manitoba and Canada. This bill puts Manitoba businesses and workers first by making it easier to sell products and services across Canada.”
The legislation received royal assent after being introduced in May, aligning with the federal government’s goal of achieving free trade across the country by Canada Day, July 1.
Opposition backs economic legislation
Opposition finance critic Lauren Stone said her Progressive Conservative team supported the expedited passage to benefit Manitoba families and businesses quickly.
“This is another step for Manitoba and Canada to freer internal trade. While more work needs to be done, we were pleased to work co-operatively to ensure the benefits to Manitoba families and businesses are realized quickly,” said Stone.
The bill’s passage comes as first ministers meet to discuss internal trade issues. Government house leader Nahanni Fontaine said passing the legislation before the meeting positions Manitoba as a leader among provinces on internal trade.
Business groups pushed for changes
Several prominent Manitoba business organizations had called for the elimination of interprovincial trade barriers, including the Manitoba Chambers of Commerce, Winnipeg Chamber of Commerce and the Business Council of Manitoba.
The legislation also includes amendments to the Commemoration of Days, Weeks and Months Act to establish Buy Manitoba, Buy Canadian Day.
Moses said the bill strengthens Manitoba’s economy and protects residents from tariffs by making interprovincial commerce more efficient for local businesses.
