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Alberta Resumes U.S. Liquor Imports With 25% Surtax

Customers are shifting toward Canadian, international brands under a 25% surtax on U.S. spirits

A new directive from the province has American alcohol once again en route to Alberta.
A dwindling supply of a popular American whiskey brand is shown on the shelves at BSW Liquor in northeast Calgary on Thursday, March 6, 2025. AGLC has announced it will begin importing U.S. product again, allowing stores to restock American brands.

Overview

  • The Alberta government lifted its March ban on U.S. liquor imports and reinstated orders through Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis; a 25% surtax on invoice prices remains in place.
  • Edmonton retailers report that restocked American spirits, especially bourbon, have underperformed pre-pause levels as consumer interest turns to Canadian whisky.
  • Keg n Cork Liquor Company and 121 Jasper Liquor have cut American shelf space and expanded selections of Canadian whisky plus European and South American wines to meet demand.
  • Provincial wholesale data shows a 26% increase in liquor sales from February to April, boosted by products from New Zealand, the U.K. and Barbados.
  • Retailers warn that higher wholesale costs for Canadian wines compared with direct winery sales make it difficult to compete on price and maintain margins.