In response to the 50 per cent tariff on Canadian alcohol enacted by the United States of America on August 22, Saskatchewan will reciprocate with a 50 per cent levy on USA alcohol imported into Saskatchewan, effective September 8th.
The measure is intended to send a clear signal that Saskatchewan will continue to stand up for its industries, workers and exporters while supporting efforts to restore fair and predictable trade between Canada and the U.S.
“Saskatchewan has always been a strong supporter of free and fair trade,” Deputy Premier and Minister of Finance Jim Reiter said. “Our preference is to see tariffs removed on both sides of the border, but Saskatchewan cannot ignore measures that negatively affect our producers, exporters and communities.”
The 50 per cent levy will apply to U.S.-origin alcohol imported into Saskatchewan. Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Authority online ordering system used by retailers will be updated to reflect this change effective September 8. Any U.S. produced alcohol ordered by retailers as of that date will be subject to the 50 per cent levy.
The Government of Saskatchewan continues to advocate for the removal of tariffs and other trade barriers affecting Saskatchewan exports and supports a negotiated resolution that protects Saskatchewan jobs and strengthens the Canada-U.S. trading relationship.
“Pile O Bones is proud to be a Saskatchewan brewery supporting local jobs and suppliers,” Pile O Bones Brewing Co CEO Glenn Valgardson said. “We are feeling the impact of the trade dispute through higher costs. We appreciate the Premier standing up for Saskatchewan businesses and ensuring our province has a strong voice.”
“Our objective is not to prolong a trade dispute,” Reiter said. “Our objective is to defend Saskatchewan’s interests and get back to tariff-free trade as quickly as possible.”