Statement – MBP reaction to tariffs

The recent announcement that the United States has imposed 25% tariffs on all products imported from Canada is disheartening. These actions are detrimental to beef producers and consumers on both sides of the border.

Manitoba Beef Producers (MBP) is especially concerned about the breakdown in the mutually beneficial beef trade relationship that has long existed between our two countries through successive free trade agreements. This collapse has the potential to undermine well-established, tightly integrated and thriving beef cattle supply chains while simultaneously creating adverse ripple effects in each country.

MBP has been actively working alongside our provincial and national industry colleagues on this issue, first to help make the case against the proposed implementation of tariffs, and now to advocate for their removal on live cattle and beef. This includes involvement such as MBP President Matthew Atkinson’s participation in the newly-created Province of Manitoba U.S. Trade Council, and MBP board Secretary Tyler Fulton in the role of Vice President of the Canadian Cattle Association. The trade file is a key priority for MBP and the many other beef value chain members working to advance our sector’s interests and needs.

March 5, 2025