Winnipeg, MB – Manitoba is expanding its planned PST cut on ready-made foods and drinks, ensuring savings for customers at mom-and-pop shops and convenience stores. Premier Wab Kinew announced the amendment, addressing previous concerns that the initial plan favoured larger grocery chains. The PST cut will now apply to items like rotisserie chicken, pre-made salads, pop, chocolate, and other grab-and-go meals, regardless of where they are purchased.
The NDP government's Budget 2026-27, revealed last month, initially proposed removing PST from packaged food items sold only at grocery stores starting July 1. This sparked criticism from smaller retailers who argued the move would put them at a disadvantage. Supervisor Befekadu Abitew of Bee Wow Convenience Store in Winnipeg voiced concerns that his low-income customers would unfairly miss out on the tax relief.
Kinew stated the expansion aims to include "most of what we would think of as mom-and-pops," estimating the additional cost to the province at a "couple million" dollars annually. The initial budget projected a $32 million annual cost for the broader PST cut on grocery food items. During a press conference in March, Kinew highlighted that the PST cut would make items like rotisserie chicken and sugar-free drinks more affordable for Manitobans.
The Opposition Progressive Conservatives have criticized the NDP's approach, arguing for a level playing field across all retailers. Tory Leader Obby Khan suggested the tax break wouldn't provide significant savings for Manitobans and questioned the fairness of excluding smaller businesses. Despite the criticism, the expanded PST cut reflects the government's commitment to easing the cost of living for Manitoba families.
