Opposition blames Manitoba NDP policies for economic decline as Trump tariff deadline looms

Manitoba’s Progressive Conservative opposition sounded the alarm over the province’s worsening economic outlook, accusing Premier Wab Kinew’s NDP government of failing to address rising unemployment, a $1.3-billion deficit, and a sharp decline in private investment ahead of a looming U.S. tariff deadline.

Official Opposition Leader Wayne Ewasko and Midland MLA Lauren Stone, PC Finance Critic, warned that Manitoba risks losing thousands of jobs as major companies, including mining giant Vale, consider exiting the province. They pointed to President Donald Trump’s February 1 tariff deadline as an imminent threat to industries already reeling from stalled projects and investor uncertainty.  

“Wab Kinew’s failure to deliver an economic plan is driving Manitoba into decline, and working families are paying the price,” said Ewasko. 

“With President Trump’s tariff deadline fast approaching, Manitoba is unprepared to withstand the fallout. This government’s inaction has put thousands of jobs and livelihoods at risk.” 

The criticism follows recent data showing Manitoba’s economic competitiveness has plummeted. Once ranked the sixth-best global jurisdiction for mining investment in 2023, the province now sits second-last among Canadian provinces for planned investments in mining, energy, and forestry over the next decade, according to Natural Resources Canada. Fourteen major projects have been canceled or suspended in 2024 alone.  

Stone highlighted the cascading effects of lost private investment, particularly in rural and northern communities. 

“Every lost project means lost jobs and opportunities for workers and their families, especially in rural and northern Manitoba,” said Stone. 

“A strong economy goes hand in hand with lowering the cost of living and funding strong healthcare, education, and public safety services for Manitobans. When private investment disappears, government revenues follow, which is a serious concern given that the NDP is already running a $1.3-billion deficit this year.” 

The PCs singled out NDP-aligned environmental policies, including the 30x30 conservation initiative and the LEAP Manifesto, both endorsed by Kinew, as deterrents to business. They cited Japanese manufacturer Asahi Kasei’s recent decision to relocate a planned $1.6-billion EV battery plant from Manitoba to Ontario as evidence of investor flight.  

“Manitobans can’t afford a government that sits on its hands and drives opportunity away,” said Ewasko. 

“The premier needs to act now and present a plan to grow our economy, protect jobs, and secure investments that support the families who depend on them.”