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Provinces Sell U.S. Liquor Stockpiles for Charity as Ontario Holds $80 Million in Storage

Several jurisdictions are turning sales into donations to address record food-bank demand.

Overview

  • Manitoba, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland & Labrador are selling U.S. liquor inventories and directing net proceeds to food banks and community groups.
  • Prince Edward Island put U.S. products back on shelves on December 11 with an anticipated C$600,000 in profits, and Nova Scotia tied a C$14 million inventory to a C$4 million upfront payment to food-access organizations.
  • Newfoundland & Labrador made a C$500,000 upfront donation with a total contribution expected up to C$1 million, and Manitoba estimates about C$500,000 in net revenue for charities.
  • Ontario’s LCBO says U.S. alcohol remains off shelves and in storage until further notice as options are reviewed, with roughly C$80 million in inventory drawing calls from Ontario Liberals to sell and donate the proceeds.
  • Responses vary across Canada as Alberta and Saskatchewan resumed purchasing and distribution of U.S. products, several provinces sell down existing stock, and U.S. spirits exports to Canada fell about 85% in Q2 2025.