Alberta has officially resumed its purchases of American-made alcohol and gambling machines, reversing a decision announced three months ago by Premier Danielle Smith. The original move was introduced in response to new tariffs imposed by U.S. President Donald Trump on Canadian goods and energy exports.

Service Alberta Minister Dale Nally confirmed the policy shift on Friday, describing it as a renewed gesture toward “open and fair trade” between Alberta and the United States.

In March, Premier Smith declared that the province would suspend purchases of U.S. alcohol and video lottery terminals, as well as refrain from entering new contracts with American suppliers. Although Alberta’s liquor outlets are privately operated, all alcoholic imports are routed through a provincially regulated ordering system.

Policy Shift Comes Ahead of CUSMA Review

This change in course arrives ahead of the 2026 mandatory review of the Canada-U.S.-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA), which was initially brokered during Donald Trump’s first presidency. Minister Nally stated that Alberta’s decision to lift its procurement freeze is intended to promote “more constructive negotiations” with U.S. trade officials as the review approaches.

“Prime Minister Mark Carney has made a clear effort to reset the relationship with the U.S. administration, and Alberta’s government supports this approach,” said Nally in an official statement. “We are focused on highlighting Alberta’s role as a responsible and collaborative trading partner and will continue working alongside other provinces to advocate for a tariff-free relationship.”

Pause in April Framed as Diplomatic Gesture

Although the boycott was announced in March, Alberta softened its stance in April when it temporarily halted the procurement ban “in the spirit of diplomacy,” according to Nally. That early gesture hinted at the province’s willingness to re-engage economically, even as trade tensions persisted.

Other provincial leaders across Canada had taken similar actions in March, introducing restrictions on U.S. liquor and other goods in response to the newly enacted American tariffs. Alberta’s updated position suggests a coordinated effort to de-escalate the trade dispute as negotiations around CUSMA intensify.

Local Industry Still Encouraged

Despite the resumption of U.S. imports, Minister Nally emphasized the importance of continuing to support Alberta-based producers. He noted that while American products will again be available, consumers are urged to prioritize local options where possible.

The decision marks a notable shift in Alberta’s trade strategy—away from symbolic protest and toward a more pragmatic path focused on long-term trade stability and collaboration with both national and international partners.

Source: 

Alberta resumes buying U.S. alcohol, months after pause meant to fight tariffs, townandcountrytoday.com, June 6, 2025