Nova Scotians who have been missing their favorite California Cabernet or Tennessee whisky will soon have an opportunity to replenish their stocks. The provincial government has announced plans to sell its remaining inventory of U.S. alcohol, valued at approximately $14 million. Net profits from this sale, estimated at around $4 million, will be donated to Feed Nova Scotia and other community food organizations.
The decision to remove all U.S. alcohol products from NSLC shelves on March 4 was made in response to tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump. Premier Tim Houston confirmed that the province will cease ordering from the U.S. once the current inventory is depleted.
Initially, Nova Scotia had intended to retain its stockpile of U.S. liquor, but following recent developments in ongoing trade negotiations, the decision was made to sell off the inventory. Premier Houston emphasized the province’s commitment to working collaboratively on national trade issues.
The inventory primarily comprises wine and spirits like whisky and will be available for purchase at NSLC outlets across the province starting Monday. It is expected to take several months to sell. Once the sales and expenses are tallied, an estimated $4 million will be returned to the province. This amount will be allocated to Feed Nova Scotia and other community food access initiatives.
Several other provinces and territories, including New Brunswick, British Columbia, and the Yukon, have also opted to sell their remaining American alcohol inventory.