Alberta Premier Danielle Smith rejects alcohol ban amid US tariff threat

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith said she will not retaliate against U.S. President Donald Trump's threat of a 50 percent tariff on Canadian goods by imposing an alcohol ban. She told a province‑wide radio show that the decision on stocking U.S. alcohol will be left to retailers and consumers, emphasizing a measured, calm approach.

Smith noted that several provincial liquor boards had previously halted purchases of American alcohol, with Alberta and Saskatchewan later resuming sales, while Ontario and Quebec have not. The latest U.S. tariff announcements include an extra 10 percent duty on many countries, though goods covered by the CUSMA trade pact are exempt. Other provincial leaders have expressed varying positions, but Smith has pledged to avoid emotional retaliation and focus on sector‑by‑sector negotiations.