Manitoba’s premier expressed hesitancy but willingness to consider reintroducing American alcohol into the province as part of a potential trade agreement, with a notable suggestion – to refrain from purchasing it. Canadian and U.S. officials are in discussions to finalize a deal that would prevent new U.S. tariffs on approximately $30 billion worth of Canadian goods. Prime Minister Mark Carney and his team engaged with cabinet members and provincial leaders on the potential agreement.
Premier Kinew disclosed that Carney urged provinces to reintroduce American liquor to store shelves, although Manitoba has not yet agreed to this proposition. Kinew emphasized that even if U.S. products are restocked at Liquor Marts as part of the trade deal, Canadians have the choice to opt for Canadian alternatives instead. During a news conference, Kinew advised consumers to let American alcohol remain on the shelves and opt for Canadian products as a message against President Donald Trump’s trade policies.
In a retaliatory move in 2025, Manitoba initially removed millions of dollars worth of U.S.-produced alcohol due to Trump’s imposition of tariffs on Canadian goods conflicting with the Canada-U.S.-Mexico trade agreement. Subsequently, Manitoba residents showed a preference for local options, leading to a significant increase in sales at Liquor Marts.
While other Prairie provinces swiftly reintroduced American alcohol to shelves, Manitoba’s procurement policies have favored Canadian or non-American sources since the onset of the trade war. This stance resulted in a substantial decline in the province’s spending on American companies, prompting the Trump administration to seek a resolution with Canada.
Kinew emphasized the need for fair trade terms, especially regarding tariffs on steel and aluminum, to support workers in Manitoba. He criticized Trump’s trade policies and expressed skepticism about the longevity of any potential deal, reserving the right to remove U.S. alcohol from shelves if necessary.
A California winemaker, Steve Matthiasson, criticized Kinew’s stance on American alcohol, highlighting that not all U.S. alcohol producers are problematic. He emphasized the impact of the trade war on his business, noting challenges in planning, downsizing, and export limitations.
Public opinion on reintroducing American alcohol varied, with some supporting Carney’s concessions for better trade relations, while others echoed Kinew’s call to prioritize local products. The general sentiment suggests a reluctance to purchase American goods, signaling a shift towards supporting domestic options and fostering local businesses.