Statement by DISCUS President & CEO Chris Swonger on Certain Canadian Provinces Removing American Spirits from LCBO Store Shelves
“This retaliation targeting American spirits is extremely disappointing and counterproductive. Taking American spirits off the store shelves will needlessly reduce revenues for the provinces and hurt Canadian consumers and hospitality businesses. Some spirits are recognized as ‘distinctive products’ by the U.S. and Canada and can only be made in their designated countries such as Bourbon and Tennessee Whiskey in the U.S., and Canadian Whisky in Canada. As a result, the production of these products cannot simply be moved to another country or region. We urge the U.S. and Canada to work together to reach an agreement that continues to foster a thriving spirits industry between our two countries.”
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Background data:
- In 2023, the U.S. imported $537 million worth of Canadian spirits. In 2023, American spirits exports to Canada reached $255 million.