Martha Reynolds, a conscientious shopper, carefully considers the origins of products she buys, whether at the grocery store or the NSLC, Nova Scotia’s Crown-run alcohol retailer. Expressing her commitment to avoid purchasing American goods, she has swapped bourbon for scotch whisky and made other adjustments in her buying habits.
Reynolds, who previously worked for the provincial wine association, praises the quality of wines produced in Nova Scotia, Ontario, and British Columbia, recommending them over California wines. Her preference, along with the decision of some Canadian provinces to stop selling American alcohol in response to the U.S.-initiated trade war, has significantly impacted the distilled spirits industry in the United States.
Chris Swonger, the president and CEO of the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States, acknowledges the adverse effects of the boycott, citing a 63% decline in exports to Canada last year. He emphasizes the importance of finding common ground with the Trump administration to address the situation.
Despite the initial demand for American products when they were reintroduced at the NSLC following the trade war, sales have since declined. Notably, the NSLC defines American products as those made or produced in the U.S., excluding certain beverages like Budweiser, which is brewed in Halifax as part of Anheuser-Busch InBev.
The NSLC removed American alcohol from its shelves in 2025 as a response to the trade war, with the corporation resuming sales of existing inventory but refraining from ordering additional American products. Swonger expresses hope for improved relations between the American and Canadian governments, acknowledging the emotional nature of the current political divide.
As the NSLC plans to provide more information on remaining American products in its upcoming financial reports, the impact of the boycott on U.S. alcohol exports continues to be felt, with Swonger expressing regret over the situation and optimism for future resolution.
