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Do Canadians plan to buy U.S. booze when it returns? Here’s what we learned
Premiers are weighing a return of U.S. liquor as a trade deal nears, while a poll found 80% of residents still support the ban.
Following a request from Prime Minister Mark Carney, provincial premiers agreed to return U.S. liquor to store shelves as a sign of good faith during trade negotiations with President Donald Trump.
Last year, every Canadian province except Alberta and Saskatchewan implemented bans on American alcohol in response to tariffs imposed by President Trump.
A recent Pollara survey indicates about 80 per cent of Canadians in affected provinces support the ban, though roughly half would favor lifting it to secure a broader trade deal.
Newfoundland and Labrador Premier Tony Wakeham told reporters Thursday that Canadians should "buy the Canadian stuff instead," while confirming roughly $400,000 in American inventory remains on shelves.
Long-Term availability depends on consumer decisions, as agencies like the LCBO will stock less U.S. product if demand remains low, with experts predicting the return will be a "mixed bag.