The NSLC reported that approximately $1.5 million worth of American alcohol remained in its inventory, representing 10% of the original stock after removing U.S. products from the shelves. Nova Scotia’s Crown-run alcohol retailer disclosed that sales of American booze totaled over $1.8 million during the first quarter, spanning from April 1 to June 28.
As of August 17, the NSLC confirmed 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 to replenish it. This decision followed the halt of purchasing American alcohol in January 2025 and the subsequent removal from shelves in March 2025 as part of Canada’s response to the trade war with the U.S.
The retail value of the alcohol removed from shelves amounted to $14,896,652, equating to more than 600,000 product units. In December, the NSLC resumed selling the warehoused American products, directing the proceeds to community food groups.
Moreover, it was announced in April that 315 organizations would receive grants totaling $5.3 million from the sales proceeds, ranging from $1,000 to $350,000 per group. The NSLC clarified that American alcohol availability varies across the country, with full availability in Alberta and unavailability at the LCBO, Ontario’s major alcohol purchaser.
The decision of various Crown-run alcohol retailers to cease purchasing American alcohol has negatively impacted the U.S. alcohol industry and posed a significant trade challenge. Chris Swonger, President and CEO of the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States, expressed that these actions have been detrimental and are lobbying the Trump administration for resolution.
Globally, American alcohol exports declined by 3.8% in 2025, largely due to the Canadian provinces’ boycott of U.S. alcohol. Excluding Canada, spirit exports would have seen a 2.5% increase. Last year, Brown-Forman, the parent company of Jack Daniel’s whisky and Woodford Reserve bourbon, reported a 62% drop in sales to Canada during its first fiscal quarter.
In Nova Scotia, American alcohol products include those made, manufactured, or produced in the U.S. Beers like Budweiser or Coors, brewed in Canada, remain available, as well as products like Southern Comfort, produced in Montreal. The proceeds from American product sales continue to support food security initiatives, as confirmed by a Finance Department spokesperson.