The NSLC has maintained its stance on not selling American alcohol, in contrast to New Brunswick Liquor, which recently began selling off its remaining $3.4 million worth of American alcohol. The NSLC currently holds about $14 million worth of American products in storage, excluding items like Budweiser, which are produced domestically at the Oland Brewery in Halifax and Coors, which has Canadian breweries.
Despite the ongoing storage of American alcohol by the NSLC, there are no plans for disposal due to concerns about perishability. Finance Department spokesperson Rachel Boomer stated that the province has yet to determine the fate of the stockpiled American alcohol but indicated that non-tariff measures restricting the sale of American alcohol will persist for now. The decision to review these measures will be considered if it benefits Canada in future trade negotiations with the U.S.
The absence of American alcohol in Canadian stores and establishments is a result of the trade tensions initiated by U.S. President Donald Trump earlier this year. This move has impacted American alcohol producers significantly, with exports to Canada decreasing by 85% in the second quarter of 2025. In contrast, local and Canadian alcohol sales have seen an upsurge during this period, with Nova Scotia spirit products and wine sales increasing by 24.2% and 15.1%, respectively.
The shift away from American alcohol has been beneficial for Canadian producers, as evidenced by the rise in sales figures for Canadian wine and whisky. This change reflects consumer preferences amid the trade disputes, with a notable increase in support for domestic and local products.
