Manitoba signs trade deals with four provinces to reduce barriers

NEWS | Manitoba has entered into economic co-operation agreements with four other provinces

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Published: July 25, 2025

A semi truck hauls cargo on a highway in Western Canada.

Manitoba has entered into economic co-operation agreements with New Brunswick, Saskatchewan, British Columbia and Prince Edward Island, which are aimed at reducing trade barriers and increasing labour mobility between the provinces.

Premier Wab Kinew announced the memoranda of understanding on July 21, saying the deals would create opportunities for businesses and workers across the country.

“These agreements reflect Manitoba’s ongoing efforts to build a stronger, more unified Canadian economy, one where goods, services and workers can move more freely between provinces, while maintaining the highest standards for health and safety,” Kinew said in a news release.

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The agreements include commitments to eliminate internal trade barriers and work toward mutual recognition of professional credentials across provincial licensing systems. The four provinces also agreed to permit direct-to-consumer alcohol sales from Manitoba producers, with further discussions planned to expand consumer choice and market access.

The agreements build on Manitoba’s existing trade legislation, including the Fair Trade in Canada (Internal Trade Mutual Recognition) Act and Labour Mobility Act.

About the author

Miranda Leybourne

Miranda Leybourne

Reporter

Miranda Leybourne is a Glacier FarmMedia reporter based in Neepawa, Manitoba with eight years of journalism experience, specializing in agricultural reporting. Born in northern Ontario and raised in northern Manitoba, she brings a deep, personal understanding of rural life to her storytelling.

A graduate of Assiniboine College’s media production program, Miranda began her journalism career in 2007 as the agriculture reporter at 730 CKDM in Dauphin. After taking time off to raise her two children, she returned to the newsroom once they were in full-time elementary school. From June 2022 to May 2024, she covered the ag sector for the Brandon Sun before joining Glacier FarmMedia. Miranda has a strong interest in organic and regenerative agriculture and is passionate about reporting on sustainable farming practices. You can reach Miranda at [email protected].

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