Carney Urges Premiers to Lift Ban on U.S. Alcohol

Prime Minister Mark Carney has urged Canada’s provincial premiers to remove restrictions on U.S. alcohol as Ottawa works to finalize an interim trade agreement with the United States.

Trade negotiations between Canada and the U.S. are continuing after President Donald Trump delayed the implementation of a proposed 50 per cent tariff until Friday. Washington has repeatedly raised concerns over Canada’s restrictions on American alcohol products.

Because provincial governments control the sale and distribution of alcohol in Canada, Carney held a virtual meeting with the premiers on Wednesday and asked them to bring U.S. alcohol back to store shelves.

Nova Scotia Premier Tim Houston and several other provincial leaders confirmed the discussion, saying they would be prepared to lift the restrictions if the final trade agreement is considered favourable for Canada.

Carney also asked the premiers to remove procurement restrictions that prevent American companies from bidding on certain provincial government projects.

The federal government has not yet released details of the proposed trade deal. However, reports suggest Canada could receive some relief from sector-specific tariffs, potentially benefiting industries such as steel, aluminum and automobiles.