Amid escalating trade tensions between Canada and the United States, Alberta has become the latest Canadian province to announce a ban on the import and sale of U.S. alcohol.

The move comes as a direct response to Trump’s 25% tariffs on Canadian goods, which Alberta Premier Danielle Smith condemned as an "economic attack" on Canada.

Alberta’s Strong Stand Against U.S. Tariffs

Announcing the decision, Smith described the tariffs as a “betrayal of a deep and abiding friendship” between Canada and its southern neighbor.

“This economic attack on our country, combined with Mr. Trump's ongoing threats to use economic force for annexation, has broken trust between our nations,” Smith remarked, as quoted in a report by Forbes.

The Alberta Premier has instructed provincial agencies, including Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis (AGLC) — the sole importer of alcohol in Alberta — to cease further purchases of American liquor and video lottery terminals.

Smith also outlined plans for a public campaign encouraging Albertans to support locally made products, highlighting the province’s push for economic independence amid the dispute.

Other Provinces Take Similar Steps

Alberta is not alone in its response. In recent days, Ontario, Quebec, British Columbia, and Manitoba have also declared their own measures to restrict U.S. alcohol imports.

British Columbia Premier David Eby announced that "BC Liquor Stores will be pulling all red-state liquor products off the shelf and will not order any more."

Eby further urged citizens to prioritize Canadian goods and reconsider travel to the United States, emphasizing the need to "send a strong message."

Meanwhile, Ontario, Quebec, and Manitoba have announced suspensions on both the import and sale of American liquor, signaling a united provincial front against Trump’s tariffs.

Canada Imposes Retaliatory Tariffs

On the federal level, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau revealed that Canada would impose 25% retaliatory tariffs on CAD 155 billion (USD 107 billion) worth of American products.

While some of these duties have already been enacted, others are set to take effect within 21 days.

Trudeau stated that these measures would remain in place “until the U.S. trade action is withdrawn,” signaling a firm stance from Ottawa against Washington's aggressive trade policy.

Background to the Dispute

The trade dispute follows Trump’s earlier decision to impose 25% tariffs on Canadian and Mexican imports.

He cited insufficient efforts to curb fentanyl trafficking across North American borders — an accusation Canadian officials have contested, pointing out that most fentanyl entering the U.S. originates from elsewhere.

Although Trump had offered a 30-day extension in February for both countries to demonstrate stricter border controls, the tariffs came into force this week when he claimed both nations had failed to act decisively.

Trump, addressing Congress, acknowledged potential economic fallout, telling American farmers to "bear with" him during what he described as "a little bit of an adjustment period."

Diplomatic Tensions Remain High

Adding to tensions, Trump claimed on Truth Social that Trudeau had called him to discuss the tariffs, but insisted Canada had done little to stop the flow of fentanyl.

He further accused Canada of having "weak border policies" and allowing illegal substances and migrants into the U.S.

Despite describing the call as "somewhat friendly," Trump reiterated his hardline stance.

FAQs

Did Obama impose tariffs?

The George W. Bush and Barack Obama administrations implemented quotas and tariffs on Chinese textiles to protect U.S. manufacturers, accusing China of selling these goods at unfairly low, "dumping" prices.

Did China put a tariff on Canada?

China's Customs Tariff Commission of the State Council has announced that an additional 100% tariff will be levied on Canadian rapeseed oil, oil cakes, and peas, while pork and aquatic products will face an extra 25% tariff.