OTTAWA — Provincial rules around alcohol and the federal government’s “Buy Canadian” policy have been flagged in a new report citing several trade irritants between Canada and the U.S.
The annual document prepared by the Office of the United States Trade Representative says market access barriers imposed by provincial liquor control boards “greatly hamper” exports of U.S. wine, beer and spirits to Canada.
Several Canadian provinces pulled American booze from shelves last year after U.S. President Donald Trump imposed tariffs and the document says the U.S. wants its alcohol to “immediately and permanently” return to all markets.
The document also raises concerns about the federal government’s “Buy Canadian” procurement policy that aims to ensure Canadian products and workers are prioritized in contracts worth $25 million or more.
The report says U.S. companies have reported concerns about barriers in competing for contracts, including being forced to share information about their boards of directors or prove their Canadian subsidiary’s independence from a U.S. parent company.
Other issues listed in the report include high tariffs on U.S. dairy products and delays with aircraft validation in Canada.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published March 31, 2026.
Catherine Morrison, The Canadian Press
