News & Current Affairs
Ontario Leads the Charge in U.S. Liquor Ban
Ontario Premier Doug Ford announced that the Liquor Control Board of Ontario (LCBO) will immediately stop selling U.S.-made alcoholic beverages.
"Every year, LCBO sells nearly $1 billion worth of American wine, beer, spirits, and seltzers. Not anymore," Ford stated.
This move aligns with Ford's re-election campaign, which emphasizes economic resilience and trade independence.
British Columbia Targets Republican-Led States
British Columbia Premier David Eby has instructed BC Liquor Stores to stop purchasing alcohol from U.S. Republican-led states.
"Effective today, I have directed BC Liquor sales to immediately stop buying American liquor from red states," Eby said.
The province is also reviewing government contracts with U.S. businesses and prioritizing Canadian and international suppliers.
Nova Scotia Expands Economic Retaliation
Nova Scotia Premier Tim Houston ordered the Nova Scotia Liquor Corporation (NSLC) to remove American liquor from shelves and announced further economic measures.
"It's remarkable to find ourselves at odds with our best friend and neighbor, but we will do everything necessary to protect Nova Scotians," Houston stated.
This includes doubling tolls for U.S. commercial trucks at Cobequid Pass and limiting provincial contracts with American firms.
Federal Government Strikes Back with Tariffs
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced a 25% tariff on $155 billion worth of American goods, with $30 billion taking effect immediately and the rest following in three weeks.
"If President Trump wants to usher in a new golden age for the United States, the better path is to partner with Canada—not to punish us," Trudeau stated.
Finance Minister Dominic LeBlanc reinforced the stance, stating Canada is prepared to stand firm in the economic dispute.
For additional insights into how Trump's tariffs are impacting the global whisky industry, read our related coverage on the UK whisky sector’s response to U.S. trade policies.
Public Support for the Boycott Grows
Canadians have responded with strong support for the boycott, canceling U.S. trips and urging a #BuyCanadian movement on social media. At recent sports events, the U.S. national anthem was even met with boos.
Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew encouraged calm but emphasized economic solidarity:
"Our quarrel is not with the American people. We still share a history of our veterans fighting shoulder to shoulder. But we must protect our economy."
As tensions rise, Canadian consumers are shifting toward domestic products, while the future of U.S.-Canada trade relations remains uncertain.
To receive your weekly whisky industry news roundup, sign up for our free whisky newsletter.
Share on social media:
