Following the collapse of a recent deal, the trade conflict with the U.S. continues, but the status of American alcohol in Canada remains largely unaffected.
Despite occasional reports of a ban on American alcohol in the country, the situation is more nuanced.
According to Robert Huish, a Dalhousie University professor in Halifax specializing in sanctions and economic measures, the current scenario cannot be labeled as an embargo, tariff, blockade, or boycott.
Describing the situation as a “flex move,” Huish noted that different provinces have varying approaches towards American alcohol, with Alberta allowing full availability while Ontario’s LCBO, one of the world’s largest alcohol purchasers, does not stock American products.
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Various provinces, like Nova Scotia, have taken intermediate stances on the matter.
Huish emphasized the symbolic impact of provinces choosing not to stock American alcohol as a message to the Trump administration, which has reacted personally to such actions.
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Below is a breakdown of the availability of American alcohol in each province across Canada.
British Columbia
In British Columbia, American alcohol is absent from Crown-run B.C. Liquor stores since early last year, but private liquor outlets, restaurants, bars, and pubs can obtain warehoused American products from the province’s Liquor Distribution Branch.
Alberta
Alberta, with a private liquor retail system, saw its public liquor importer, Alberta Gaming, Liquor & Cannabis (AGLC), cease American
