Local brewers and distillers across Saskatchewan are backing a new 50 per cent levy on alcohol imported from the United States, framed as a direct response to recent American trade actions.
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The retaliatory move follows a 50 per cent tariff enacted by the U.S. on Canadian alcohol on Aug. 22.
Shawn Moen, chief executive officer of 9 Mile Legacy Brewing Co. Ltd., said the provincial and federal response reflects existing consumer demand for local products while sending a clear signal across the border.
“Measures like this reflect existing consumer preferences for locally made products, sends a message of reciprocity to our American trading partners, and focuses our efforts on the things that we do control in Saskatchewan — building our local economy and encouraging internal trade,” Moen said.
Retail leaders noted that while the levy will drive up retail shelf prices for American goods, it leaves the final decision in the hands of shoppers.
“I like the fact that our Premier and the Saskatchewan government are leaving it up to the consumer to make the decision,” said Troy Verboom, CEO of Sherwood Co-op.
Distillers in the province see the shift as an opportunity to showcase Western Canadian agriculture. Meredith Smidt, CEO of Last Mountain Distillery, expressed optimism that the price adjustment will encourage consumers to seek out spirits made from local grains.
Similarly, Great Western Brewing Company CEO Micheal Brennan noted the tariff could prompt consumers to return to beer brewed with Western Canadian barley.
The 50 per cent levy will apply to all U.S.-origin alcohol imported into the province. The Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Authority’s online ordering system for retailers will be updated to apply the levy effective Sept. 8.
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