Canadian Consumers Shun American Alcohol, Impacting U.S. Producers

Martha Reynolds is conscious of product origins, opting not to purchase American goods, including bourbon, in favor of Scotch whisky and locally made wines like those from Nova Scotia, Ontario, and British Columbia. This trend, amplified by Canadian provinces ceasing American alcohol sales due to the U.S. trade war, is negatively impacting American alcohol producers. Chris Swonger, CEO of the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States, expressed concerns about the 63% drop in exports to Canada last year. The boycott of American alcohol in Canada and early shipments to the EU due to tariff threats were cited as primary reasons for the 3.8% global export decrease. Despite the temporary removal of American alcohol from NSLC shelves in response to the trade war, sales have dwindled. Products defined as American exclude certain items like Budweiser brewed in Halifax and Southern Comfort produced in Montreal. The NSLC plans to disclose remaining American products in June. Swonger acknowledged the political divide between the U.S. and Canada, expressing hope for improved relations.