Quebec’s liquor board may destroy $300K of American alcohol banned due to U.S. tariffs, including rosé, boxed wines, cocktails, and select beers.
Quebec Faces Potential Loss of U.S. Alcohol Stock
Quebec’s state-run liquor board may be forced to destroy $300,000 worth of American alcohol after the provincial government banned U.S. products in stores. The move comes in response to tariffs imposed by former President Donald Trump.
Products at Risk
Affected items include rosé and boxed wines, ready-to-drink cocktails, and select beers and liqueurs. These products, officials note, are not suitable for long-term storage, raising concerns over potential spoilage.
Government Orders and Storage Challenges
The Quebec government issued its directive on March 4, requiring the liquor board to remove U.S. alcohol from shelves. Since then, the stock has been held in storage. Laurianne Tardif, a spokesperson for the board, said, “Several factors…will have a direct impact on the potential costs” as the future of these products remains undecided.
Financial Scope
The $300,000 at risk represents a fraction of the $27 million worth of U.S. alcohol currently in storage. Liquor board CEO Jacques Farcy previously stated that the products retained value and were not perishable, suggesting the possibility of resale if regulations change.
Provincial Context
Quebec is not alone in restricting U.S. alcohol. In March, Ontario and Alberta also instructed liquor authorities to halt U.S. purchases, while British Columbia banned liquor from certain U.S. “red states.” Unlike Quebec, Alberta and Saskatchewan have since reversed their restrictions.
Next Steps
Ultimately, the decision on whether these products can be sold or must be destroyed rests with the Quebec government. Liquor board officials continue to monitor expiration dates and regulatory guidance, with potential financial implications still unfolding.
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