Manitoba to Establish Permanent Trade Office in Washington to Strengthen U.S. Relations
Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew announced plans to open a permanent trade office in Washington, D.C., as part of an economic strategy to enhance the province’s relationship with the United States. The announcement was made during his second state of the province address at the RBC Convention Centre in Winnipeg on Tuesday.
The trade office, set to open early next year, aims to solidify Manitoba’s position as a key trading partner and reliable source of critical minerals, energy, and agricultural products. Kinew emphasized the importance of building strong ties with U.S. decision-makers and industries, particularly in states like Illinois, Minnesota, Georgia, Tennessee, and Texas.
Responding to U.S. Trade Threats
The announcement comes amid heightened trade tensions, as U.S. president-elect Donald Trump recently threatened to impose a 25% tariff on goods entering the U.S. from Canada and Mexico unless measures are taken to address drug trafficking and migration at the borders.
Premier Kinew stated that the office is a proactive step to protect Manitoba’s economy and jobs, highlighting the province’s critical role in supplying essential resources to the U.S. economy.
“It’s clear that the critical minerals, energy, and agricultural products we provide are absolutely essential to American economic success,” Kinew said.
A Strategic Approach for Economic Growth
Kinew underscored the importance of appointing representatives who align with Manitoba’s values while being capable of effectively navigating the political landscape under Trump’s administration. “We need people who ‘speak the language’ of the administration—dare I say it, a little ‘Trumpy,’” he remarked.
These representatives will work closely with Manitoba’s cabinet ministers and the premier to implement the economic development strategy, ensuring the province’s interests are well-represented in Washington.
The initiative was first recommended by the NDP government’s Business and Jobs Council, formed in December 2023. Earlier this year, a sub-committee on U.S. trade visited Washington with Premier Kinew and other ministers, reinforcing the need for a physical presence in the U.S. capital.
Broad Support for the Trade Office
The move has garnered support from stakeholders, including Winnipeg Chamber of Commerce president Loren Remillard, who highlighted the importance of a physical presence in Washington. “Other provinces like Ontario, Quebec, and British Columbia already have full-time representation. This initiative will help Manitoba stand out,” Remillard said.
Interim Progressive Conservative Leader Wayne Ewasko also acknowledged the importance of a trade office but pointed out that his party had proposed a similar idea earlier. “You heard it here first,” Ewasko noted.
Strengthening Manitoba’s Economic Future
With the establishment of the Washington trade office, Manitoba joins other Canadian provinces in ensuring its voice is heard on critical trade and economic issues. Kinew urged Manitobans to work together to navigate the challenges of the new trade era and create a prosperous future.
“We’re a province that, when united, can move mountains,” Kinew said. “Let’s navigate this new Trump era and ensure there’s opportunity and positivity for everyone in Manitoba.”
Source : Swifteradio.com
