Manitoba’s leader reluctantly considers reintroducing American alcohol as part of a potential trade agreement but advises against purchasing it. Negotiations between Canadian and U.S. officials aim to prevent new U.S. tariffs on nearly $30 billion in Canadian goods. Premier Mark Carney discussed this deal with his cabinet and other premiers, urging the return of American alcohol to store shelves, a request Manitoba has not yet accepted.
If U.S. products are restocked in Liquor Marts as part of the trade deal, Manitobans are encouraged to opt for Canadian alternatives, signaling disapproval of Trump’s trade policies. In response to Trump’s tariffs, Manitoba removed millions of dollars worth of American alcohol in 2025. Despite the possibility of American liquor returning, the province emphasizes consumer choice to reject such products.
While lengthy queues formed in December to purchase American liquor for a limited period, Manitobans primarily favored local options, leading to considerable sales growth at Liquor Marts. Other Prairie provinces swiftly reintroduced U.S. alcohol after temporary bans, aligning with a commitment to fair trade practices.
Premier Carney urged provinces not to exclude the U.S. from procurement policies, but Manitoba’s preference for Canadian or non-American sources significantly reduced spending on American companies. The opposition criticized this stance, citing a significant contract with an American firm. Kinew emphasized the need for zero tariffs and support for local workers like those at the Gerdau steel mill.
Kinew expressed skepticism about the durability of any deal with Trump, highlighting the need to protect Manitoba’s interests. Despite potential benefits, he stressed the importance of standing firm in negotiations with the U.S. A winemaker from California critiqued Kinew’s approach, emphasizing the impact on U.S. businesses and the challenges faced due to trade disruptions.
Public reactions in Manitoba varied regarding the potential return of American alcohol. Some viewed concessions on U.S. liquor as strategic in dealing with Trump, while others supported local purchases in line with Kinew’s stance. The absence of American products in Liquor Marts benefited local distilleries, fostering support for homegrown options and signaling a shift towards domestic products.