Conservatives propose bill to remove barriers on interprovincial alcohol sales

Canada’s Conservative Party says it is pushing to remove federal barriers that limit the sale and delivery of Canadian alcohol between provinces.

Conservative MP Dan Albas has introduced a private member’s bill that proposes amendments to the Canada Post Corporation Act. The changes would allow Canadian breweries, wineries and distilleries to ship products directly to consumers across provincial borders using Canada Post.

Speaking at a news conference Tuesday morning, Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre said current rules make it harder for Canadian businesses to trade within the country than with some foreign markets. According to Poilievre, existing federal law makes it illegal in six provinces to ship Canadian beer, wine or spirits through Canada Post directly to customers.

Poilievre also criticized the prime minister, saying a promise had been made during the election campaign to advance freer internal trade by Canada Day. He said progress on removing barriers between provinces has been limited so far.

Federal legislation passed June 26 through Bill C-5 reduced some interprovincial trade restrictions, but direct shipping of alcohol to consumers remains unresolved. Conservatives say the new bill is intended to address that gap.