After over seven months of removing American alcohol from its shelves due to Nova Scotia’s response to the U.S. trade war, the NSLC has chosen not to sell off any of the products, diverging from New Brunswick’s decision.
The NSLC currently holds approximately $14 million worth of American products in storage, which are items originating from the U.S., excluding certain items like Budweiser, which is produced at the Oland Brewery in Halifax, a part of the global beer company Anheuser-Busch InBev.
Similarly, Coors operates several breweries in Canada, including one in Moncton, New Brunswick.
If you’re questioning why “The spirit of New Orleans” – Southern Comfort is still on NSLC shelves, it’s because it is manufactured and bottled in Montreal.
Rachel Boomer, a spokesperson from the Finance Department, mentioned that the province has not yet determined the course of action regarding the stockpiled American alcohol.
However, the implementation of non-tariff measures, such as withholding American alcohol from retail shelves, will persist for the time being.
“We are willing to reassess these measures if they prove beneficial to Team Canada during negotiations for a long-term trade agreement with the U.S.,” a statement from Boomer indicated.
American alcohol continues to be off the market in most Canadian retailers, bars, and restaurants as a response to the tariffs imposed by U.S. President Donald Trump earlier this year.
Trump’s comments suggesting Canada’s potential incorporation as the 51st U.S. state have also generated displeasure among many Canadians.
The NSLC assured that none of the stored American alcohol has been discarded due to concerns about perishability, according to a CBC News report.
In Quebec, the SAQ liquor board disclosed in August its intention to dispose of approximately $300,000 worth of American alcohol, but later decided to donate the alcohol to charitable foundations and for educational purposes in Quebec’s hospitality schools.
Effect on American Alcohol Producers
The boycott on American alcohol by several provinces has adversely affected some U.S.