U.S. to bar most Canadian wine imports, hurting BC producers
The United States will prohibit the majority of Canadian alcohol imports later this month, prompting British Columbia wineries to brace for lost sales and market exposure.
Later this month the United States will enforce a ban on most Canadian alcohol imports, a step beyond the 50% tariff already imposed. Owners of Lightning Rock Winery in Summerland expect to lose about 500 cases of wine sold to the U.S., representing $120,000-$150,000 in annual revenue. Painted Rock Estate Winery in Penticton says the financial hit may be smaller, but the loss of U.S. exposure could damage brand development and access to key reviewers and competitions.
Jeff Guignard of the Wine Growers of British Columbia says the ban will hurt Canadian producers, American importers, distributors, retailers and hospitality businesses alike, and warns it sets a dangerous precedent for trade reliability. The industry is urging the Canadian government to eliminate interprovincial trade barriers and to give domestic wines greater shelf space in provincial liquor stores. The ban is scheduled to take effect on Sept. 29.
