Alberta has lifted its ban on U.S. alcohol imports, making American spirits like Jack Daniel’s and Jim Beam available again—this time with a 25 per cent tariff. But while Alberta shelves are restocking with U.S. liquor, Ontario shows no signs of following suit.
The Liquor Control Board of Ontario (LCBO) confirmed this week that U.S. products remain unavailable, with no timeline to reinstate ordering. The ban was originally introduced in March as a direct response to escalating tariffs imposed by U.S. President Donald Trump on Canadian exports, including a recent hike in steel and aluminum duties from 25 to 50 per cent.
Despite Alberta’s move, Ontario Premier Doug Ford says the province won’t revisit the ban until those tariffs are lifted. Meanwhile, some exceptions exist: Bacardi rum, bottled in U.S. territories like Puerto Rico, is still available at LCBO stores and online, since such territories are not subject to Canada’s retaliatory trade measures.
In Alberta, Service Minister Dale Nally said the province’s decision to resume imports reflects a “renewed commitment to open and fair trade” with the United States, even amid lingering tensions.
For now, Ontario’s liquor shelves are filled with Canadian-made replacements. The LCBO says it has swapped out U.S. items for “suitable alternatives,” spotlighting Ontario-made wines, ciders, spirits, beer, and ready-to-drink cocktails. Over 3,000 Canadian products are now featured on its popular “Eh List,” and this summer alone, more than 70 new Ontario-made products are debuting in stores.
The LCBO also continues to push its “Support Ontario” campaign, encouraging smaller producers to fill the retail gap left by American brands. Until the tariff standoff cools, Ontarians will have to look closer to home for their next drink.