Quebec's maple syrup reserve emptied as demand outpaces supply
The strategic maple syrup reserve in Quebec has been exhausted, prompting producers to seek government aid and new export markets.
Quebec's strategic maple syrup reserve, created to stabilise prices and supply, has been completely depleted, according to Luc Goulet of the Quebec Maple Syrup Producers. He highlighted that rising demand and recent weather conditions have drained the buffer, raising concerns about future market access if sap yields fall. The sector has seen export increases of 9.34% in 2024 and 15.8% in 2025, but growth slowed to 2.48% from January to August 2026.
Louis Turenne of the Maple Industry Council noted that roughly 65% of exports still go to the United States, down from 80% two decades ago, and called for accelerated entry into European, Australian and Asian markets. Goulet urged the newly elected Parti Québécois government to provide financial assistance and support for market expansion. The industry, which accounts for over 70% of North American production, contributed $1.21 billion to Quebec's GDP in 2025 and employs more than 10,000 workers.
