Doug Ford Maintains Ban on U.S. Alcohol Sales

Ontario Premier Doug Ford announced on February 10, 2026, that he will maintain the ban on American alcohol products at the Liquor Control Board of Ontario. The ban, established in March 2025 by several Canadian provinces, serves as a retaliatory measure against United States tariffs on Canadian goods. Ford stated the restriction will remain until the U.S. government removes these unfair tariffs.

President Donald Trump criticized the ban in a Truth Social post, labeling it an irritant and citing grievances regarding the Gordie Howe Bridge project. Despite this pressure, Ford maintained that the tariffs are a tax on the American people and an attack on the American economy.

Ontario Finance Minister Peter Bethlenfalvy confirmed that the province holds approximately $80 million in stored U.S. alcohol inventory. Unlike Nova Scotia, Manitoba, and Quebec, which sold their stockpiles for charity, Ontario has no plans to sell off its inventory. Bethlenfalvy noted that the province is steadfast in protecting local workers and businesses while seeking a low-tariff or tariff-free deal with the United States.