Manitoba’s business sector remains cautious following President Donald Trumps inauguration

Manitoba industries and governments remain cautious, following President Donald Trump’s inauguration on Monday, as U.S. tariff threats continue to cast a shadow of uncertainty over Canada’s trade sector.

“I think we’ll do it February 1st,” said Trump on Monday.

Winnipeg’s Chamber of Commerce, Loren Remillard, emphasized the need for urgency in reinforcing Canada’s trade value to the U.S.

He says we need to focus on what we are doing as Canadians to mitigate risk, citing recent studies showing the elimination of inter-provincial trade barriers across the country.

“If there’s a constant threat, it will undermine business confidence and investment plans,” said Remillard.

“We know yesterday many of us were anticipating the president to sign an executive order imposing these tariffs we did not see that yesterday that is an encouraging sign,” he added.

“Within our own house, independent of anything anyone else may do, we have the ability to control our own fate in our regard to offset potential negative ramifications.”

Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew would not provide detailed plans for the province but did stress the need for Canada to prioritize strengthening its relationship with the United States rather than resorting to threats.

“We have plans to support your jobs and our economy at home if the trade situation gets worse,” he explained.

Kinew touched on the importance of this approach with the Canada-United States-Mexico agreement set for renegotiation in 2026.

“Right now, while we have room to operate and speak to Americans let’s not escalate the situation, at the same time as a proud Canadian and Manitoba I will never hesitate to put your jobs first and stand up for my country,” said Kinew.

Kinew confirmed that Canada’s premiers will return to Washington on February 16 to continue discussions.