Manitoba’s leader expressed a reluctant willingness to consider reintroducing American alcohol as part of a potential trade agreement but emphasized a message to consumers not to purchase it. Talks between Canadian and U.S. officials are ongoing to prevent new U.S. tariffs on about $30 billion worth of Canadian goods. Premier Mark Carney and his team engaged with cabinet members and provincial leaders to discuss the potential deal.
Kinew revealed that Carney urged provinces to bring back American alcohol to stores, but Manitoba has not agreed to this yet. Even if U.S. products return to Liquor Marts as part of the trade deal, Kinew advised Canadians to opt for Canadian alternatives instead. During a press conference, he emphasized the importance of sending a clear message of disapproval towards Trump’s trade tactics.
In response to Trump’s tariffs on non-compliant Canadian goods, Manitoba initially removed millions of dollars worth of U.S.-made alcohol from shelves in 2025. The province saw long lineups for American liquor when a limited amount was briefly reintroduced in December, with proceeds donated to charity. American wines and liqueurs, set to expire in the fall, were also sold at Liquor Marts in May. Despite the availability of U.S. alcohol, Manitobans displayed a preference for local options, leading to significant sales growth at Liquor Marts.
While other Prairie provinces reinstated American alcohol sales earlier, Manitoba has held back. Alberta removed U.S. alcohol from shelves in March 2025 but lifted the ban three months later, citing a commitment to fair trade. Saskatchewan also briefly banned American alcohol in March 2025 before reversing the decision.
Carney requested that provinces not exclude the U.S. from their procurement policies, highlighting Manitoba’s preference for Canadian or non-American sources since the trade conflict began. The province’s reduced spending on American companies has significantly impacted trade negotiations with the U.S. opposition leader raised concerns about the province’s contract with an American-based firm, questioning Kinew’s commitment to supporting local businesses.
Kinew emphasized the need for a better trade deal with the U.S., criticizing Trump’s trade policies and expressing skepticism about the longevity of any agreement. He stressed the importance of supporting workers and local industries in trade negotiations. The premier highlighted the need for tariffs on steel and aluminum to be eliminated, indicating that Manitoba’s decision would depend on the deal’s terms and its impact on local workers.
A winemaker from California and Winnipeg native criticized Kinew’s blanket stance on U.S. alcohol, emphasizing the importance of distinguishing between different U.S. products. He highlighted the adverse effects of the trade war on his business, leading to decreased exports and operational challenges. The winemaker expressed frustration over the trade policies affecting his ability to export to Canada.
Public reactions to the potential reintroduction of American alcohol varied, with some supporting the move as a strategic concession to Trump while others emphasized the importance of buying local products. Manitobans shared mixed views on the impact of the trade negotiations on cross-border relations and local businesses.