Canadian Provinces Clash Over U.S. Alcohol Bans

Canadian provincial leaders are weighing retaliatory measures after the United States imposed 50 per cent tariffs on US$20 billion in Canadian goods, including honey, hockey sticks, and flower bulbs. Prime Minister Mark Carney has pledged dollar-for-dollar retaliatory tariffs against the U.S. starting September 8.

In Saskatchewan, the New Democratic Party is urging Premier Scott Moe to remove American alcohol from provincial shelves. While Moe expressed support for Carney's national retaliation and stated his government would discuss a potential liquor ban, he has not yet committed to the action.

Other provinces have taken different stances. Alberta Premier Danielle Smith rejected a booze ban, citing a belief in consumer choice. Meanwhile, Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew has maintained a policy of not ordering U.S. liquor for over a year, though he indicated a willingness to reverse this if it helps secure a trade deal.