Manitoba ranked as Canada’s top-performing province for reducing internal trade barriers in the Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB) 2026 Internal Trade Report Card, earning an A rating and the highest overall standing.
Manitoba was also recognized as a national leader in direct-to-consumer alcohol sales, earning a perfect score of 10.
“Our government is taking action to make Manitoba and Canada stronger by breaking down trade barriers and creating new opportunities for businesses to grow, invest and create jobs,” said Business, Mining, Trade and Job Creation Minister Jamie Moses. “Being recognized by the CFIB as Canada’s top-performing province on internal trade is a testament to Manitoba’s leadership and our commitment to delivering results. Through landmark legislation and agreements with provinces across the country, we are cutting red tape, expanding market access and helping Manitoba businesses compete and succeed from coast to coast.”
The report card recognizes governments for advancing mutual recognition, reducing domestic trade barriers and improving the movement of goods and services across Canada. It also notes that continued implementation will be key to ensuring businesses and consumers see the benefits of these commitments.
“This national recognition demonstrates what can be achieved when governments focus on practical solutions that support economic growth,” said Moses. “Manitoba is proud to be leading the country on internal trade. We will continue working with our provincial and territorial partners to eliminate barriers, expand opportunities for Manitoba businesses and ensure our province remains one of the best places in Canada to invest, work and grow a business.”
The Manitoba government passed the Fair Trade in Canada (Internal Trade Mutual Recognition) Act (Bill 47) on June 3, 2025, to remove barriers to the trade in goods and the supply of services between Manitoba and other jurisdictions within Canada.
The Manitoba government also signed a Mutual Recognition Agreement with provinces and territories across Canada for the sale of goods, allowing many goods that meet the regulatory requirements of one participating jurisdiction to be sold in another without the need to satisfy additional provincial product requirements. In addition, Manitoba signed a memorandum of understanding on trucking to address transportation-related barriers that have been identified as a key impediment to the movement of goods across Canada. Together, these measures help reduce red tape, improve the flow of goods and services and strengthen Canada’s internal market, the minister noted.
To learn more or view the full report card, visit cfib-fcei.ca.
