The NSLC reported that approximately $1.5 million worth of American alcohol remained in stock, representing 10% of the initial inventory before U.S. products were removed. Nova Scotia’s Crown-run alcohol retailer disclosed in its first-quarter financial report that sales of American alcohol totaled over $1.8 million from April 1 to June 28.
In an update to CBC News, the NSLC mentioned that as of August 17, around $1.5 million worth of American alcohol inventory was still on hand. This indicates that 90% of the U.S. alcohol stock has been sold, with no intention to restock.
Following the cessation of American alcohol purchases in January 2025 and subsequent removal from shelves in March 2025 due to the trade war with the U.S., the NSLC announced that the retail value of the pulled alcohol was $14,896,652, equivalent to over 600,000 units.
In December, the NSLC resumed selling stored American alcohol, directing proceeds towards community food programs. Consequently, grants totaling $5.3 million were allocated to 315 organizations in April, with individual amounts ranging from $1,000 to $350,000.
The revenue generated from American product sales continues to support food security initiatives, as confirmed by a Finance Department representative in a recent CBC report. The availability of American alcohol varies across Canada, with Alberta having full access while the LCBO in Ontario, a major alcohol purchaser, does not offer American products.
The decision by Crown-run alcohol retailers to halt American alcohol purchases has negatively impacted the U.S. alcohol industry and become a significant trade issue. Chris Swonger, CEO of the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States, expressed concerns about the impact of the bans and boycotts on their industry.
Globally, American alcohol exports declined by 3.8% in 2025, mainly due to the Canadian provinces’ boycott of U.S. alcohol. Brown-Forman, the parent company of popular brands like Jack Daniel’s and Woodford Reserve, reported a 62% drop in sales to Canada during the first fiscal quarter last year.
In Nova Scotia, American alcohol products are those made in the U.S., leading to the exclusion of Canadian-brewed beers like Budweiser and Coors. However, products like Southern Comfort, produced in Montreal, remain available for purchase at NSLC stores.
