U.S. tariffs hurt Manitoba farmers, economy

Today, Keystone Agricultural Producers (KAP) responded to the U.S. government implementing 25% tariffs on Canadian goods imported into the U.S.

“Today’s imposition of tariffs on Canadian goods entering the U.S. will do nothing but harm farmers and consumers on both sides of the border,” said KAP President, Jill Verwey. “We oppose these trade actions that impede the free flow of goods between our two nations in the strongest of terms.”

In 2024, Manitoba’s agri-food exports were $9.28 billion, with 46% of that going to the U.S. as our top agri-food trading partner. Some of the most exported farm products from Manitoba into the U.S. include canola, pork, potatoes, and oats.

“Manitoba farmers produce world-class agricultural products and our trading partners in the U.S. know this, despite the actions their federal government are taking that will disrupt their ability to access Manitoba products at an affordable price,” said KAP General Manager, Colin Hornby. “These tariffs will not only add costs and threaten Manitoba farmers’ ability to operate but will impact the livelihoods and purchasing power of countless individuals and businesses on both sides of the border, resulting in increased food costs for U.S. consumers.”