The Manitoba government has announced more than $100 million in tariff-related supports, including several measures aimed directly at helping farmers and agri-businesses manage growing trade uncertainty. 

Agriculture Minister Ron Kostyshyn said the province is focusing on improving access to capital and strengthening existing risk management programs as producers deal with the latest U.S. tariff measures.

The package includes significant changes to Manitoba Agricultural Services Corporation (MASC) loan guarantee programs. The maximum operating loan guarantee available to individuals, corporations and partnerships will increase to $3 million, while the guaranteed portion of loans under both the Operating Credit Guarantee and Diversification Loan Guarantee programs will rise to 33.33 per cent from 25 per cent. 

The Diversification Loan Guarantee Program is also being expanded to include grain and oilseed operations and new investments in primary agricultural infrastructure, while increasing the loan amount above which Treasury Board approval is required to $5 million from $1.5 million.

Government highlights cash flow concerns

Kostyshyn said producers are facing uncertainty at a time when many are bringing in their crops and managing major seasonal expenses.

The minister encouraged farmers to review their participation in AgriStability, noting governments have increased interim payment levels to improve producer cash flow and are providing additional flexibility for late enrolment. He described Business Risk Management programs as agriculture's first line of defence when dealing with market disruptions.

Kostyshyn said maintaining access to financing remains critical as producers make investment decisions during a period of uncertainty.

Honey sector receives special attention

Honey producers are among the sectors expected to feel some of the largest impacts from the latest tariff measures.

The minister said Manitoba is working directly with beekeepers to identify support options and market opportunities. He pointed to discussions with honey producers and industry representatives about developing additional value-added uses and new domestic marketing opportunities.

The province has also committed to working with the beekeeping industry through a collaborative table to develop targeted sector-specific supports. 

KAP welcomes support measures

President of Keystone Agricultural Producers Jill Verwey says the organization appreciates the province's ongoing consultation with farm groups.

She described the increased loan guarantees as an important step given the capital-intensive nature of farming and growing exposure to global trade disruptions.

Verwey said KAP will continue working with both provincial and federal governments to ensure support programs are delivered quickly and structured in a way that works for producers.

She added that maintaining access to operating capital will help farmers continue harvesting this year's crop while managing the financial pressures created by trade disruptions.

Broader tariff package announced

Beyond agriculture, Manitoba's tariff response includes a new $50 million Manitoba Trade Resilience Loan Program, additional export development funding, expanded export advisory services, support for manufacturers and exporters, wage subsidy programs and a temporary deferral of provincial retail sales and payroll taxes. 

Government ministers said the measures are intended to help businesses, workers and producers weather ongoing trade uncertainty while diversifying markets and strengthening Manitoba's economy over the longer term.