The Saskatchewan government has reversed its decision to remove American-branded beer, brewed in Canada, from the province’s liquor store shelves. The move follows concerns raised by industry groups and aims to align Saskatchewan’s response with that of other provinces.
In a statement issued on Monday afternoon, the Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Authority (SLGA) announced that it would resume the sale and distribution of 54 types of American-branded alcohol that are brewed in Canada. This decision comes after a previous plan, announced last week, to bar distributors from selling these products due to U.S. tariffs on certain Canadian goods.
The SLGA clarified that the reversal was a result of feedback from industry stakeholders. The authority explained that Saskatchewan would now focus on U.S.-produced alcohol, in line with the approach taken by other provinces.
The original ban, which was part of Saskatchewan’s broader strategy to respond to U.S. tariffs, attracted significant criticism from various groups. Beer brands such as Budweiser, Coors, and Miller — all brewed in Canada despite their American origins — were set to be removed from shelves.
Despite the initial announcement, products already purchased by distributors could still be sold. The decision to reconsider the ban comes after public outcry and calls for a more consistent approach to the tariff issue.
Saskatchewan’s shift in policy reflects a growing effort to balance provincial responses to trade disputes while addressing the concerns of local businesses and consumers.
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