Indigenous Chamber of Commerce Calls for Stronger Indigenous Procurement Policies Amid U.S. Tariff Impact

Winnipeg, MB — As U.S. tariffs threaten to disrupt cross-border trade, the Indigenous Chamber of Commerce (ICC) is calling on all levels of government to strengthen Indigenous procurement policies and recognize the vital role of Indigenous businesses in Canada’s economy.

“Many Indigenous businesses rely on cross-border trade in sectors like manufacturing, natural resources, and artisan goods,” said Renee Greyeyes, President & CEO of the ICC. “New tariffs create uncertainty and increase costs for these businesses, many of which already operate on tight margins. This makes it harder for them to compete and grow.”

The ICC emphasizes that Indigenous businesses face systemic barriers, including limited access to capital, procurement opportunities, and infrastructure challenges. These tariffs add yet another layer of difficulty, directly impacting job creation and economic self-sufficiency in Indigenous communities.

An Indigenous-owned clothing company in Manitoba, for example, looking to export products to the U.S., now faces higher costs due to American tariffs on imported textiles. This leaves them with two difficult choices: raise prices and risk losing competitiveness, or absorb costs and reduce profit margins.

The ICC urges the Canadian government to develop and implement trade policies that acknowledge the unique economic realities and valuable contributions of Indigenous businesses. This includes:

• Expanding Indigenous procurement opportunities at federal, provincial, and municipal levels.
• Investing in Indigenous supply chains to strengthen domestic production and reduce reliance on international imports.
• Ensuring Indigenous businesses have equitable access to funding and resources to mitigate rising costs.

“We need to be proactive,” Greyeyes added. “Indigenous-owned, grassroots supply chains are a key part of the solution. By investing in and supporting these businesses, we foster sustainable growth and create opportunities that benefit everyone right here at home; in Canada’s economy.”

The ICC remains committed to supporting Indigenous businesses through advocacy, resources, and collaboration. We encourage businesses affected by these tariffs to share their concerns so we can bring them forward in discussions with policymakers.

For media inquiries, please contact:
Crystal Lamirande, Executive Assistant to Renee Greyeyes,
info@indigenouschambermbm.ca or 204-237-9359

About the Indigenous Chamber of Commerce
The ICC champions Indigenous economic empowerment and reconciliation by supporting Indigenous-owned businesses and fostering partnerships across sectors. Through advocacy, mentorship, and collaboration, the ICC works to create equitable opportunities and drive sustainable growth for Indigenous entrepreneurs and communities.

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