Manitoba’s leader reluctantly considers reintroducing American alcohol as part of a potential trade agreement, advising against purchasing it. Canadian and U.S. officials are in discussions to prevent new U.S. tariffs on around $30 billion worth of Canadian goods. During talks, Prime Minister Mark Carney urged the provinces to resume stocking American alcohol, but Manitoba has not yet agreed. Premier Kinew emphasized that if U.S. products return to store shelves, Canadians can choose not to buy them, opting for Canadian alternatives instead. This move aims to express disapproval of President Trump’s trade policies.
In 2025, Manitoba initially removed millions of dollars worth of U.S.-made alcohol in response to U.S. tariffs on Canadian goods. Despite temporarily offering American alcohol for sale in December, Manitobans showed a preference for local options, resulting in significant sales growth at Liquor Marts. Other Prairie provinces like Alberta and Saskatchewan had previously reinstated U.S. alcohol sales, highlighting a commitment to fair trade.
Carney also requested that the premiers not exclude the U.S. from procurement policies to facilitate trade negotiations. Manitoba’s procurement policies have favored Canadian or non-American sources, significantly reducing spending on American firms. While Kinew awaits further details of the trade deal, he advocates for zero tariffs and support for local workers, expressing skepticism about the deal’s longevity.
Not all U.S. alcohol producers should be painted with the same brush, as emphasized by a California winemaker and Winnipeg native. The winemaker highlighted the impact of the trade war on his business, expressing frustration at the challenges faced due to trade policies. Reactions among Manitobans were mixed, with some supporting Carney’s decision regarding American liquor and others emphasizing the benefits of buying local products.