Manitoba’s leader expressed hesitance but openness to reintroducing American alcohol as part of a potential trade agreement, with a notable suggestion to refrain from purchasing it. Negotiations between Canadian and U.S. authorities are ongoing to prevent new U.S. tariffs on approximately $30 billion worth of Canadian products. Prime Minister Mark Carney and his team engaged in discussions regarding the potential deal with cabinet members and provincial leaders.
Kinew revealed that Carney urged the provinces to reintroduce American alcohol into stores, although Manitoba has not yet consented to this request. If U.S. products are restocked in Liquor Marts as part of the trade negotiation, Kinew emphasized that Canadian consumers have the choice to opt for Canadian alternatives instead. During a press briefing, Kinew urged citizens to boycott American alcohol to convey discontent with President Donald Trump’s trade policies.
In response to Trump’s tariffs on non-compliant Canadian goods under the Canada-U.S.-Mexico trade agreement in 2025, Manitoba initially withdrew millions of dollars worth of U.S.-made alcohol. Subsequently, limited quantities of American wines and liqueurs set to expire were sold in Liquor Marts. Despite the availability of U.S. alcohol, Manitobans displayed a preference for local options, resulting in a significant year-over-year sales increase at Liquor Marts.
While other Prairie provinces swiftly reintroduced American alcohol, Manitoba upheld its stance. Alberta reinstated U.S. liquor sales after a temporary ban, citing a renewed commitment to fair trade. Similarly, Saskatchewan briefly enforced a ban before reverting to allowing U.S. alcohol sales.
Carney advised premiers against excluding the U.S. from procurement policies, emphasizing the importance of fair trade practices. Manitoba’s procurement policies have favored Canadian or non-American sources since the onset of the trade conflict, leading to a substantial reduction in the province’s spending on American companies. Kinew highlighted the impact of these policies and emphasized the need for a mutually beneficial trade deal.
Notably, Kinew questioned the sustainability of any potential agreement with Trump, expressing concerns about its longevity. He underscored the importance of supporting local industries and workers, indicating that favorable terms, including minimal tariffs, are crucial for Manitoba’s approval of the deal. Kinew criticized Trump’s governance and underscored Canada’s advantageous position in the negotiations.
Regarding Kinew’s remarks, a Californian winemaker and Winnipeg native expressed disagreement with Kinew’s blanket approach towards U.S. alcohol. The winemaker highlighted the negative impact on California winemakers due to decreased exports following the removal of American products from Canadian shelves. The winemaker emphasized the challenges faced in planning and business operations due to the trade dispute.
Public reactions varied towards the potential reintroduction of American alcohol in Manitoba. Some individuals supported Carney’s flexibility in negotiations, acknowledging the necessity to compromise with Trump. Consumers expressed a shift towards purchasing local products amid the trade tensions, aligning with Kinew’s advocacy for supporting domestic industries.