- Trump has imposed new tariffs on Canadian goods, including a 50% tariff on certain exports, which has sparked significant economic shifts.
- Canadian liquor stores began removing American alcohol from their shelves in March 2025 in response to the US tariffs.
- Provincial leaders have stated they will not back down on the boycott against US products, indicating strong resistance to the tariffs.
- US liquor exports were down 3.8% in 2025, partly due to Canadian trade actions, highlighting the impact of the tariffs.
- Quebec’s provincial liquor distributor SAQ reported a 69.4% growth in 'Origine Québec' products, showcasing a shift in consumer preferences.
- Canadian distillers have reported increased sales, with some spirits sales increasing by more than 35% as a result of the tariffs.
- Provincial leaders have taken a strong stance against US products, with some indicating that the tariffs have led to positive changes in local production and sales.
Trump's recent tariffs on Canadian goods, including a 50% levy on select products, have triggered a notable economic shift in Canada.
Canadian distillers are experiencing a surge in sales, with Quebec's provincial liquor distributor SAQ reporting a 69.4% growth in 'Origine Québec' products.78
“Our spirits sales — particularly our whisky and spiced rum — increased by more than 35%,” said a representative from SAQ.
The tariffs have also led to a boycott of U.S. alcohol, particularly in provinces like British Columbia, where Premier David Eby stated, “There’s not a chance in hell that US alcohol is going back on the shelf.”
This boycott has contributed to a 3.8% decline in U.S. liquor exports to Canada, according to an alcohol producers’ trade group.
Additionally, the recent reforms allowing producers to sell directly to consumers across provinces have been hailed as a significant step forward.
“It’s an amazing first step,” said Paul Cirka of CIRKA Distilleries in Montreal, noting that while demand for whisky has increased, production remains low.
As tensions between the U.S. and Canada escalate, the economic landscape continues to evolve, with Canadian producers adapting to the challenges posed by U.S. tariffs.
“As Trump doubles down on tariffs, Canadian distillers are experiencing a 69.4% growth in 'Origine Québec' products, with whisky sales up over 35%. Provincial leaders, including British Columbia's Premier David Eby, have vowed to maintain their boycott of US alcohol, indicating a strong resistance to Trump's trade policies.”
The Guardian
