WINNIPEG – The Manitoba government is formally barring U.S. companies from bidding on some government contracts, but the Opposition Progressive Conservatives say that’s not the case for at least two big-dollar projects.
The government promised in March to implement a buy-Canadian policy in response to tariffs imposed by U.S. President Donald Trump.
In some recent requests for proposals, including one for new camping spots in a provincial park, the offer is limited specifically to Canadian suppliers and subcontractors.
An NDP government spokesperson says the dollar amounts are small enough to be exempt from free-trade obligations.
At the legislature, the Tories tabled government documents showing two technology contracts, worth more than $1.8 million each, were awarded to firms headquartered in Texas and California.
Mintu Sandhu, Manitoba’s minister for public service delivery, says the government is reviewing all its contracts with U.S. firms.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 20, 2025.
