- Canada's ban on American booze has emerged as a key sticking point in trade negotiations with the U.S., but some shoppers in Ontario say they won’t reach for American alcohol even if it returns.
- Prime Minister Mark Carney told premiers that there will be no trade deal without a pledge to restock U.S. booze.
- Newfoundland and Labrador Premier Tony Wakeham stated that all premiers agreed to bring back U.S. booze, but Ontario Premier Doug Ford has not confirmed that.
- Ontario shoppers express strong opposition to the return of American alcohol, with some stating they won't buy it even if it returns.
- Ontario Premier Doug Ford has been silent on the issue but has indicated he’s open to bringing back American liquor if there’s a fair deal that protects sectors hit hard by tariffs.
- Some shoppers miss certain American drinks but support the ban for negotiating leverage.
- Toronto resident Peter Olson stated he hasn’t missed American alcohol and has replaced it with Canadian products.
- Connor Gillet and his husband won’t buy American alcohol if it returns, partly due to a broader boycott of American products.
Canada's trade negotiations with the U.S. are facing a significant hurdle over the ban on American alcohol, which has been in place since 2025. The ban was implemented in response to tariffs imposed by former President Donald Trump.
Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew revealed that Prime Minister Mark Carney indicated no trade deal would be possible without a commitment to restock U.S. liquor. Ford has expressed openness to the idea if it leads to a fair deal protecting Ontario's interests.25
However, many Ontarians are resistant to the idea. Peter Olson stated, “I haven’t really missed it, so I think it’ll be all right,” while Marquita Stewart declared, “I have not a chance in the world that I’m going to support anything American.”
Some residents, like Shanna Nozdryn, are torn, acknowledging they miss certain American drinks but support the ban for broader negotiations. Connor Gillet and his husband also plan to boycott American alcohol, citing a commitment to avoid products from companies supporting the Israel Defense Forces.8
Despite Newfoundland and Labrador Premier Tony Wakeham's claim that all premiers agreed to bring back U.S. booze, Ford has yet to confirm this stance, leaving the future of American alcohol in Canada uncertain.3
“Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew said Prime Minister Mark Carney 'effectively' told premiers there will be no trade deal without a restock pledge, and Kinew suggested people should 'leave it there' if it returns. Ontario Premier Doug Ford remains silent this week but is open to a 'fair deal' protecting tariff-hit sectors.”
