The NSLC reported that approximately $1.5 million worth of American alcohol remained in its inventory, accounting for 10% of the initial stock before the removal of U.S. products. Nova Scotia’s Crown-run alcohol retailer disclosed that over $1.8 million of American liquor was sold in the first quarter of the fiscal year, spanning from April 1 to June 28.
In a recent statement to CBC News, the NSLC mentioned that as of August 17, around $1.5 million worth of American stock was still on hand, indicating that about 90% of the U.S. alcohol inventory has been sold, with no intentions to restock.
The NSLC ceased purchasing American alcohol in January 2025 and removed it from shelves in March 2025 as part of Canada’s response to the trade conflict with the U.S. The retail value of the removed alcohol totaled $14,896,652, equivalent to more than 600,000 units.
In December, the NSLC resumed selling stored American products, with the proceeds directed towards community food organizations. Subsequently, grants totaling $5.3 million were distributed to 315 organizations in April, with individual amounts ranging from $1,000 to $350,000.
The revenue generated from American product sales is also allocated to food security initiatives, as confirmed by a Finance Department spokesperson to CBC last month. The availability of American alcohol products varies across Canada, with full availability in Alberta but unavailable at the LCBO, Ontario’s major liquor retailer.
The decision by various Crown-run alcohol retailers to halt American alcohol purchases has adversely impacted the U.S. alcohol industry and has emerged as a significant trade issue. Chris Swonger, the president and CEO of the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States, expressed the severe consequences of these actions on their industry and is advocating for a resolution.
Globally, American exports experienced a 3.8% decline in 2025, primarily due to the boycott of U.S. alcohol in many Canadian provinces. Excluding Canada from the data, spirit exports would have seen a 2.5% increase for the year.
Last year, Brown-Forman, the parent company of popular brands like Jack Daniel’s and Woodford Reserve, reported a 62% drop in sales to Canada during its first fiscal quarter. In Nova Scotia, American alcohol products are defined as those made, manufactured, or produced in the U.S., indicating that certain products like Southern Comfort, produced in Montreal, are still available for purchase.