PM asks provinces to stock U.S. alcohol as trade deal nears

Canadian provinces have received a specific request from Prime Minister Mark Carney to reinstate American alcohol on their store shelves. This directive comes as Canada and the United States are in the final stages of negotiating a trade agreement, a move that follows President Donald Trump's decision to pause significant tariffs on Canadian goods.

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We’ll work through that process.

Last year, all Canadian provinces removed U.S. liquor from their shelves in retaliation for U.S. tariffs. Currently, only Saskatchewan and Alberta have maintained bans on U.S. liquor sales. The Trump administration had previously cited this ban, along with Canada's dairy supply management system and tariff-free auto quotas, as key reasons for imposing tariffs.

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Of course, it’s pending a final deal.

Nova Scotia Premier Tim Houston confirmed the prime minister's request, stating it originated directly from the trade negotiations. Houston indicated his willingness to comply, pending a final deal, but also mused about consumer demand for the products once they return. Provinces were also asked to review their procurement policies to ensure they do not specifically exclude the United States.

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Whether Nova Scotians or whether Canadians will actually buy it when it gets back on the shelves, that’s a whole other discussion.

Houston expressed optimism about the trade deal's broad strokes, suggesting it holds significant benefits for Canada. He noted that core elements of supply management are expected to remain intact, and certain defense procurement areas will not be affected, which he views positively for Nova Scotia. Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe echoed the sentiment regarding the alcohol restocking request, emphasizing that his province allows consumers to make their own choices regarding U.S. alcohol purchases.

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That’s something we’re going to have to look at as well.