What happened to all the US liquor Canada pulled off the shelves?

December 8, 2025

Canadian provinces are grappling with how to handle millions of dollars worth of American alcohol that was removed from shelves in protest of US tariffs imposed in February. While some provinces like Manitoba and Nova Scotia have decided to sell their remaining inventory and donate the proceeds to local charities such as food banks, others like British Columbia have redirected stock to restaurants and bars rather than retail consumers. Ontario holds the largest stockpile at approximately C$80 million and plans to maintain its boycott until favorable trade terms are reached, though some products risk expiring soon.

Who is affected

Canadian provincial governments (specifically Ontario, Manitoba, Nova Scotia, Quebec, British Columbia, Newfoundland and Labrador, Alberta, and Saskatchewan)
American alcohol producers and the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States (DISCUS)
Local Canadian charities including Feed Nova Scotia and food banks
Canadian restaurants and bars
Canadian hospitality schools
US Ambassador to Canada Pete Hoekstra
Provincial premiers (Tim Houston, David Eby) and ministers (Glen Simard, Peter Bethlenfalvy)

What action is being taken

Manitoba and Nova Scotia are selling their remaining US alcohol inventory and donating proceeds to local charities
Nova Scotia stores are currently selling restocked US liquor with Kentucky bourbon as the top seller
British Columbia is selling its US inventory to restaurants and bars
Ontario is continuing its boycott of US alcohol
Alberta and Saskatchewan are still selling US booze to the public

Why it matters

This boycott represents a significant economic and diplomatic conflict between Canada and the United States stemming from Trump's tariff policies. The 85% decline in US liquor exports to Canada demonstrates the substantial financial impact on American producers, while Canadian provinces face the challenge of managing tens of millions of dollars in inventory that may expire. The situation has strained US-Canada relations, with the US ambassador citing the boycott as a reason Trump's team has called Canada "mean and nasty," and trade talks have been suspended. The outcome affects not only bilateral trade relations but also local Canadian charities, hospitality businesses, and tax revenues.

What's next

Nova Scotia will not order any more alcohol from the US once current inventory sells out
Ontario plans to continue its boycott until Canada secures "a tariff-free deal or low-tariff deal" with the US
American liquor producers hope both countries can address trade concerns so their products can return to Canadian retail shelves

Read full article from source: BBC