Ontario Premier Doug Ford Pledges to Remove U.S. Alcohol from LCBO Amid Tariff Threats
Ontario Premier Doug Ford has announced a bold retaliatory measure in response to U.S. President Donald Trump’s tariff threats against Canada. In a statement on Monday, Ford pledged to direct the Liquor Control Board of Ontario (LCBO) to remove all U.S.-made alcohol products from its shelves if the tariffs are enacted.
“We are the largest purchaser of alcohol in the world. They will feel the pain,” Ford declared, emphasizing Ontario’s ability to significantly impact U.S. alcohol producers.
Ford underscored his commitment to promoting Ontario-made products, viewing this as an opportunity to bolster the province’s local industries.
“By clearing U.S. alcohol off LCBO shelves, we’re making space to showcase the best of Ontario,” he said.
The Ford government has confirmed that banning the LCBO from purchasing American-made products is among the measures Ontario is prepared to take as part of a coordinated response to potential tariffs.
If implemented, the ban could see hundreds of well-known U.S.-made products disappear from LCBO stores, including:
- Whiskies: Jack Daniel’s, Jim Beam, Wild Turkey, Evan Williams
- Vodkas: Tito’s Handmade Vodka, New Amsterdam Pink Whitney
- Bourbons: Maker’s Mark, Old Forester, Skrewball Peanut Butter Whiskey
- Wines: Bread & Butter Cabernet Sauvignon, Josh Cellars, Bonanza California Cabernet Sauvignon
This list represents just a fraction of the American products currently available. Consumers would likely notice significant changes in LCBO offerings, with more than 1,000 U.S.-produced wines alone potentially being removed.
President Trump suggested Monday that his administration may impose 25% tariffs on Canadian imports starting February 1. While Trump officials hinted that the immediate focus may be limited to trade studies, the possibility of sweeping tariffs remains a concern.
Ford’s pledge comes as part of a broader call for strong Canadian retaliation. “If tariffs are imposed, Ontario will lead the charge to protect our workers and industries,” the premier stated.
Details on how a potential LCBO ban would work are still unclear. Questions remain about whether the ban would target only U.S.-produced products or extend to American-owned companies producing internationally.
Ontario’s government continues to monitor developments and is prepared to act swiftly should the tariffs take effect.