Quebec maple syrup strategic reserve reaches zero

The strategic maple syrup reserve in Quebec has been completely exhausted due to high demand, according to Luc Goulet, president of the Québec Maple Syrup Producers. The reserve was established to stabilize prices and supply, as production is heavily dependent on weather conditions.

Demand has been driven by rising international interest and previous stockpiling by U.S. commercial customers seeking to avoid potential tariffs. While exports grew by 9.34% in 2024 and 15.8% in 2025, growth slowed to 2.48% between January and August 2026 compared to the previous year.

Goulet warned that without government support, the industry risks losing market share if unfavorable weather affects sap flow, noting that once consumers switch to alternative sweeteners, those habits become difficult to reverse.