After the news over the weekend of 25% tariffs on Canadian goods entering the United States, and Canada’s subsequent response, the Province of Ontario is taking some measures of their own.
“Every year, LCBO sells nearly $1-billion worth of American wine, beer, spirits and seltzers. Not anymore,” Ontario Premier Doug Ford posted on X.
“Starting Tuesday, we’re removing American products from LCBO shelves. As the only wholesaler of alcohol in the province, LCBO will also remove American products from its catalogue so other Ontario-based restaurants and retailers can’t order or restock U.S. products.”
Premier Ford added: “There’s never been a better time to choose an amazing Ontario-made or Canadian-made product. As always, please drink responsibly.”
LCBO officials confirmed the Ontario government has directed LCBO to remove all U.S. alcohol products in store and online and stop all purchase of all U.S. products, and cease wholesale sales of these products to restaurants, bars, grocery, and other retailers, in response to the implementation of U.S. tariffs on Canadian goods.
“Effective no later than February 4, 2025, spirits, wine, beer, ready-to-drink coolers/cocktails, and non-alcoholic products produced in the U.S. will no longer be available in our retail stores, eCommerce channels, or LCBO Convenience Outlets,” LCBO officials stated in a media release.
“Wholesale customers, including grocery and convenience stores, bars, restaurants, and other retailers, will no longer be able to place orders of U.S. products. Our in-store teams can help customers find alternative products from our extensive selection of products from Ontario, Canada, and around the world.”
LCBO is the importer of record for all U.S. alcohol products into Ontario, with annual sales of up to $965 million, LCBO officials added.
“We currently list more than 3,600 products from 35 U.S. states. U.S. products will not be purchased by LCBO until the LCBO is directed to resume normal business,” LCBO officials added.
Ford also posted on X on Monday morning, the Ontario is “ripping up” the recently announced contract with Starlink.
“Starting today and until U.S. tariffs are removed, Ontario is banning American companies from provincial contracts,” Ford said.
“Every year, the Ontario government and its agencies spend $30 billion on procurement, alongside our $200 billion plan to build Ontario. U.S.-based businesses will now lose out on tens of billions of dollars in new revenues. They only have President Trump to blame.”
Ford added: “We’re going one step further. We’ll be ripping up the province’s contract with Starlink. Ontario won’t do business with people hellbent on destroying our economy. Canada didn’t start this fight with the U.S., but you better believe we’re ready to win it.”
We’ll continue to provide details about the ongoing tariff situation with the United States.
