Amid an ongoing trade dispute with the U.S. following a recent deal collapse, the presence of American alcohol in Canada remains mostly steady. Despite occasional reports suggesting a ban on American alcohol, the situation is more intricate than portrayed.
According to Robert Huish, a Dalhousie University professor specializing in sanctions and tariffs, the scenario is not accurately characterized as an embargo, tariff, blockade, or boycott. It seems to be more of a strategic move by provinces to demonstrate their stance temporarily, with considerable public backing.
The availability of American alcohol varies significantly across Canada. While Alberta offers full access, the LCBO in Ontario, one of the world’s largest alcohol buyers, does not stock American alcohol. Other provinces like Nova Scotia fall somewhere in between.
The gesture of not shelving American alcohol has sent a potent message to the U.S., particularly noted by the Trump administration. Various provinces have displayed differing stances on the matter, prompting responses from both sides.
Here’s a breakdown of the American alcohol availability in each Canadian province:
British Columbia: Private liquor stores, restaurants, and bars can still purchase American alcohol from the province’s Liquor Distribution Branch despite it being absent from Crown-run B.C. Liquor stores.
Alberta: After temporarily halting American alcohol imports, Alberta lifted the ban in June 2025, allowing retailers to sell existing inventory.
Saskatchewan: Following a brief pause, Saskatchewan resumed American alcohol imports, but later imposed a 50% retaliatory levy on these products.
Manitoba: Manitoba recently removed remaining U.S. alcohol stock from shelves after reinstating it in December.
Ontario: Ontario has upheld the most stringent boycott, refusing to sell its warehoused American alcohol or donate it for charity.
Quebec: Quebec resumed selling some American products worth $9 million to prevent spoilage, including ready-to-drink beverages and sake.
New Brunswick: ANBL in New Brunswick stopped purchasing American alcohol in February 2025 but resumed sales to select buyers in May and fully by January 2026.
Nova Scotia: NSLC in Nova Scotia ceased buying American alcohol in January 2025, eventually resuming sales in December.
Prince Edward Island: The PEI Liquor Control Commission recommenced selling American alcohol in December after a temporary halt in March.
Newfoundland and Labrador: Newfoundland and Labrador resumed sales of existing American alcohol stock in December after removing it from shelves earlier.
Yukon: While corporate stores in Yukon do not offer U.S. alcohol, private licensees and the corporation’s warehoused stock are available for sales.
Northwest Territories: The Northwest Territories continue to sell existing American alcohol stock through regular channels.
Nunavut: Nunavut stopped selling American alcohol in March 2025 but resumed some sales in July. However, products are currently not available in NULC stores.
Despite the availability of American alcohol in many regions, Canadian interest remains subdued as locals increasingly prefer domestic alternatives due to ongoing trade tensions.