The Quebec government will allow the Société des alcools du Québec (SAQ) to return certain American alcoholic products to its shelves [1].
This move comes as both nations navigate a volatile trade war. By restoring access to these products, the government aims to mitigate the impact of newly announced U.S. tariffs on Canadian tourists and prevent higher costs for Canadian consumers [1], [2].
The policy change became effective Feb. 12, 2025 [1]. The decision represents a strategic shift in how the province manages its state-run liquor stores during the broader U.S.–Canada trade dispute, a conflict that has seen various import and export restrictions.
Despite the government's decision to permit some imports, the landscape remains contentious. Some American alcohol producers have said that local Canadian products are still being favored over their imports [2].
Contradicting reports have also emerged regarding the stability of this return. While Radio-Canada reported the government's intent to reopen the shelves, other reports indicate that figures like Mark Carney have defended the boycott of American alcohol, suggesting that the United States may prefer to keep certain products off Canadian shelves [1].
The SAQ manages the distribution and sale of alcohol across the province. The reintroduction of specific U.S. labels is intended to balance the economic pressure of tariffs with the demands of the local consumer market [1].
“The Quebec government will permit the SAQ to place certain American alcoholic products back on its shelves.”
This decision suggests that the Quebec government is prioritizing consumer price stability and the tourism economy over a total trade boycott. By selectively allowing U.S. alcohol back into the SAQ system, Quebec is using retail access as a lever to soften the blow of U.S. tariffs while maintaining some pressure within the larger trade dispute.
