U.S. Alcohol Returns to Quebec Liquor Stores with Special Discount
After nearly a year of absence from Quebec's retail shelves, American wines and spirits are making a limited return to the province's liquor authority. The Société des alcools du Québec (SAQ) announced on Thursday that beginning February 12, a selection of U.S. products will be available for purchase both online and at Dépôt stores across the province.
Discount Sale to Clear Existing Inventory
The liquor board revealed it will offer a substantial 15 percent discount on these returning products. This sale applies exclusively to U.S. alcohol inventory already held in SAQ warehouses, with the purpose of clearing remaining stock. Quebec Finance Minister Eric Girard, who oversees the SAQ, emphasized that this limited sale aims to prevent financial losses associated with long-term storage of these products.
Important clarification: The Quebec government has not lifted its ban on new U.S. alcohol orders that was imposed in 2025. American products will not return to regular SAQ shelves beyond this temporary sale period. The arrangement represents a strategic move to manage existing inventory rather than a policy reversal regarding U.S. imports.
Philanthropic Component of the Sale
In a notable philanthropic gesture, the SAQ disclosed that proceeds from this special sale will benefit Quebec's food banks. The organization stated it "will transfer an amount equivalent to the cost of the products sold during the sales period, which could total up to $8.6 million, to Food Banks of Quebec (FBQ), its corporate cause for the last 15 years."
Background: Trade Disputes and Tariffs
The original removal of U.S. alcohol from SAQ shelves occurred as part of Quebec's response to tariffs imposed on Canada by former U.S. President Donald Trump. While Prime Minister Mark Carney rolled back many reciprocal Canadian tariffs last summer, trade tensions between the two nations have persisted.
Recent developments have renewed concerns about the Canada-U.S. trade relationship. Last week, Trump threatened to impose a 50 percent tariff on Canadian-made aircraft unless American regulators certify several U.S.-built planes. The former president also warned that American authorities would decertify Canadian-built Bombardier Global Express business jets.
These ongoing tensions prompted former prime minister Stephen Harper to urge Canada on Wednesday to urgently diversify its trade relationships away from Washington, highlighting the continued vulnerability of certain sectors to U.S. trade policies.
What Consumers Can Expect
Quebec residents interested in purchasing American alcohol during this limited sale period should note:
- The sale begins February 12, 2026
- Products will be available online and at SAQ Dépôt stores
- A 15% discount applies to all eligible U.S. wines and spirits
- Selection is limited to existing inventory only
- This does not represent a permanent return of U.S. products to SAQ shelves
The temporary return of American alcohol to Quebec liquor stores represents a pragmatic solution to inventory management amid ongoing trade uncertainties between Canada and the United States. While consumers can enjoy discounted products for a limited time, the broader trade relationship between the two nations continues to face challenges that affect multiple sectors beyond the alcohol industry.
