Quebec’s maple syrup producers’ association head has reported that the province’s stockpile of syrup has been exhausted due to heightened consumer demand. Luc Goulet, president of Québec Maple Syrup Producers, emphasized the necessity of government assistance to prevent missed growth opportunities in the industry.
The maple syrup harvest is heavily influenced by weather conditions, prompting the association to establish a reserve to maintain price stability and supply consistency. Last year, U.S. commercial buyers stockpiled syrup in anticipation of potential tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump.
With sales on the rise, Goulet revealed that the reserve has been completely depleted, raising concerns about potential customer loss if weather conditions impede maple sap flow, recalling past market shortages in 2007 and 2008. Despite facing challenges, Quebec’s maple syrup sector has been making strides in international markets, with a notable increase in exports in recent years, although the U.S. remains the primary destination.
Turenne, president of the Maple Industry Council, noted the importance of expanding into new markets and reducing reliance on the U.S. market to sustain growth. The industry’s economic impact in Quebec is significant, contributing over $1 billion to the GDP in 2025 and providing employment for thousands of workers.
Goulet and Turenne both advocate for increased government support to boost production, explore new markets, and capitalize on the industry’s untapped potential. The concentrated nature of maple syrup production in Quebec underscores its economic importance, with the sector playing a vital role in local communities and contributing substantially to the region’s economy.