Winnipeg 
A change in Budget 2026 is set to reduce the cost of groceries across Manitoba.
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Premier Wab Kinew announced that the latest budget will remove provincial sales tax from all grocery food items, a move expected to save Manitobans about $24 million. The change takes effect July 1.
Until now, some everyday items were still taxed. That includes things like rotisserie chicken, sandwiches and samosas. Under the new plan, those will be exempt, along with other ready-to-eat foods such as soups, prepared fruits and vegetable trays.
The update also applies to beverages such as soft drinks, fruit juices, and de-alcoholized beer and wine. Snack foods and single-serving baked goods, which were previously taxed, will also be included.
Kinew framed the decision around the reality that many families are facing, pointing to the rising cost of putting meals together during busy weeks filled with activities.
Vince Barletta, president and CEO of Harvest Manitoba, said the change could help people who are already stretching limited budgets. He noted that up to 60,000 Manitobans are using food banks each month, highlighting the scale of need.
The tax removal is part of a broader set of measures in Budget 2026. The province has also taken steps such as freezing the price of one litre of milk and introducing legislation aimed at pricing practices in stores.
