Eby maintains B.C. ban on U.S. alcohol amid trade negotiations

B.C. Premier David Eby says the province will maintain its ban on U.S. alcohol sales as Canada and the United States continue trade negotiations.

Eby said B.C. also remains committed to prioritizing local, Canadian and other trading partners in government procurement. He said the province hopes for a resolution that lowers prices for Americans and supports jobs on both sides of the border.

On July 20, U.S. President Donald Trump signed executive orders calling for an additional 50 per cent tariff on certain Canadian goods in response to Canada’s retaliatory tariffs. The White House cited provincial restrictions on U.S. alcohol, along with issues involving vehicles and dairy.

Eby said B.C.’s softwood lumber sector is under direct pressure and pointed to concerns involving steel and auto parts. In March 2025, the province removed U.S. beer, wine, spirits and refreshment beverages from BC Liquor store shelves.

An Abacus poll conducted Aug. 7 to 12 found 18 per cent of Canadians supported concessions such as easing dairy restrictions or ending alcohol bans in exchange for tariff relief. A Nanos survey of more than 1,100 Canadians in July found 69 per cent said they would be unlikely to buy U.S. alcohol even if it returned to shelves.