The NSLC reported that approximately $1.5 million worth of American alcohol remained in its inventory, representing only 10% of the stock compared to before the removal of U.S. products. Nova Scotia’s Crown-operated alcohol retailer and distributor disclosed that over $1.8 million worth of American alcohol was sold during the first quarter, spanning from April 1 to June 28.
As of August 17, the NSLC stated that around $1.5 million worth of American stock was still available, indicating that 90% of the U.S. alcohol inventory has been sold, with no intentions of restocking. The decision to stop purchasing American alcohol was made in January 2025, leading to the removal of these products from shelves in March 2025 as part of Canada’s response to the U.S. trade war.
The retail value of the removed alcohol totaled $14,896,652, encompassing more than 600,000 units of products. In December, the NSLC resumed selling the stored American alcohol, with proceeds benefiting community food groups. Resulting from these sales, 315 organizations were granted funds totaling $5.3 million in April, ranging from $1,000 to $350,000 per group.
The revenue generated from American product sales is earmarked for food security initiatives, confirmed by a Finance Department spokesperson last month. The availability of American alcohol varies across Canada, with full availability in Alberta and unavailability at LCBO, Ontario’s major liquor retailer.
The decision by various Crown-operated alcohol retailers to cease purchasing American alcohol has negatively impacted the U.S. alcohol industry and created a significant trade dispute. Chris Swonger, the President and CEO of the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States, expressed the detrimental effects of these actions, emphasizing the need for resolution.
Globally, American exports experienced a 3.8% decline in 2025, primarily due to the boycott of U.S. alcohol in several Canadian provinces. Excluding Canada from the data, spirit exports would have increased by 2.5% for the year. Last year, Brown-Forman, the parent company of Jack Daniel’s and Woodford Reserve, reported a 62% drop in sales to Canada during its first fiscal quarter.
In Nova Scotia, American alcohol products are defined as those made or produced in the U.S. Beers like Budweiser or Coors, brewed in Canadian facilities, remain available for sale. Products like Southern Comfort, manufactured in Montreal, are also unaffected and continue to be sold by NSLC.
