New Manitoba Bill Pushes for Inter-Provincial Free Trade

Boosting Trade Across Provinces Now

A new bill introduced by Midland MLA Lauren Stone, PC, called Bill 227, The Free Trade and Mobility Within Canada Act aims to support economic growth by removing internal trade barriers and making it easier for workers and businesses to operate across Canada. 

The proposed legislation encourages open trade between provinces. It would allows goods and services from provinces that reciprocate similar policies to be treated the same as local products in the proposing province. This means those goods would not face extra fees or testing rules, making it simpler and less costly to do business. 

One of the bill’s key components addresses worker mobility. Skilled professionals certified in other provinces would be able to work locally within 20 days, as long as they are in good standing and carry the required insurance in their home province. This approach is designed to help fill workforce gaps more efficiently and provide more job opportunities for Canadians. 

The idea for this bill takes inspiration from similar laws already in place in provinces such as Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and British Columbia. 

Supporters of the bill point to federal data, suggesting that eliminating trade barriers between provinces could add up to $200 billion to the national economy and lower consumer costs by as much as 15%. The bill’s sponsor says that as Canada faces pressure from international tariffs, reducing domestic trade restrictions is more important than ever. 

The legislator behind the bill is urging cooperation across political parties to help fast-track the legislation so it can be passed this spring. They argue that this policy would not only strengthen the economy but also promote unity and opportunity across Canada. 

In their words, the goal is to give Canadians the freedom to trade, work, and grow businesses across the country—while also ensuring they can thrive in their home province. 

Photo Credit: Manitoba_Legislative_building_exterior