Nearly 70% Of Canadians Say They'd Be Unlikely To Buy U.S. Alcohol If It Returns, Poll Finds

A recent Nanos Research survey indicates a large majority of Canadians would be hesitant to repurchase American-made alcoholic beverages if they were allowed back on store shelves. The poll, conducted July 28–30 with 1,104 respondents, found 69% said they were "not likely" to buy U.S. alcohol.

What the Poll Shows

Respondents were asked how likely they would be to purchase U.S.-made alcohol if it were returned to liquor-store shelves. The results: 69% said "not likely," 5% said "somewhat not likely," 6% said "somewhat likely," and 10% said they would be likely buyers. Nine percent said the question did not apply because they do not drink alcohol. Fewer than 1% reported being unsure in the July poll.

By comparison, a Nanos survey conducted in 2025 found 62% said they were not likely to buy U.S. alcohol and roughly 3% were unsure, suggesting attitudes have hardened over time.

Context: Trade Dispute and Policy Actions

The shift in public sentiment comes amid an escalating trade dispute between Canada and the United States. At the end of July, the U.S. administration issued a proclamation imposing an additional 50% tariff on certain Canadian imports, scheduled to take effect on Aug. 19. Washington said the measure was intended to counter what it described as "discriminatory treatment" of American alcoholic beverages, which remain unavailable in eight of Canada’s ten provinces due to provincial restrictions.

U.S. officials report that American alcohol exports to Canada fell by roughly 81% in less than a year, a decline that has cost distillers hundreds of millions of dollars and helped prompt the tariff response.

Political Responses and Market Effects

British Columbia Premier David Eby told reporters there was "not a chance in hell" that U.S. alcohol would return to shelves in his province, later calling the boycott "the only leverage that appears to be catching the attention of the president."

Ontario Premier Doug Ford has similarly said U.S. products will not be restocked unless the U.S. lifts what he called "illegal tariffs." Because most alcohol sales in Canada are handled through government-run liquor stores, provincial leaders have considerable influence over which products are offered to consumers.

As U.S. shipments have fallen, Canadian producers have benefited. The Liquor Control Board of Ontario reported an 18% increase in sales of Canadian-made products over the past year, driven especially by gains in domestic red and white wines. Retailers have leaned into that momentum with "Buy Canadian" promotions and staff training to highlight local brands.

Consumer Guidance And Notice

For consumers interested in reviews and ratings, apps and guides that aggregate expert coverage can help compare domestic and international options. (Disclosure: The Daily Pour — founded by Dan Abrams — positions itself as a cross-category drinks guide and review aggregator.)

Methodology note: The July poll sampled 1,104 Canadians and reports reflect respondents' stated intentions if U.S.-made alcohol were returned to shelves. Actual purchasing behavior could differ from survey responses.