SASKATOON—Input from Saskatchewan’s liquor industry made the government decide to let the Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Authority notify alcohol retailers, distributors, and producers to pull out U.S.-branded products sold in the province.
On Monday, the SLGA, a Crown Corporation in charge of alcohol control, sales, and gambling and gaming regulation, issued the notice as part of Saskatchewan’s response to U.S. tariffs on Canadian goods.
Trade and Export Minister Warren Kaeding stated that the Government of Saskatchewan's move to follow Manitoba’s decision to pull out US-made alcohol and liquor products is a way of listening to small businesses in the province.
Last month, Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew issued a directive directing the Manitoba Liquor and Lotteries to stop selling US-made liquor, with shops and stores removing them from their shelves.
“I would say significant input by small business. Small businesses were able to articulate a very sound argument that this was going to affect them seriously. Small business is a cornerstone to the economy of Saskatchewan,” said Kaeding.
“It was the appropriate thing to do, to continue to support our small businesses. [Sending] the message that tariffs will hurt everyone, whether they're businesses operating in Saskatchewan or the U.S., tariffs never help anyone.”
Kaeding advised Saskatchewan residents to buy local and support Canadian goods and products as much as possible.
“But again, we're leaving that up to each individual to determine what's best for them,” he added.
The Government of Saskatchewan, in a statement, said it has heard concerns about some products produced in Canada.
“As a result, Saskatchewan is realigning its approach to be consistent with other provinces by focusing on US-produced alcohol, and the sale and distribution of 54 Canadian-produced American brands will resume,” the statement said.
