Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew has issued a pointed warning to his Ontario counterpart, Doug Ford, advising him not to 'shoot ourselves in the foot' amidst a brewing dispute involving the iconic Crown Royal whiskey. The comments came on January 15, 2026, as Premier Kinew also reacted to the resignation of Quebec Premier François Legault.
A Call for Economic Cooperation
Premier Kinew's remarks centered on discussions with Premier Ford regarding the potential pulling of Crown Royal products. While specific details of the threat were not fully disclosed, the Manitoba leader framed the issue as one of national economic unity. He emphasized that interprovincial conflicts over major Canadian brands could ultimately harm the country's collective interests and economic stability.
'We need to be working together to build up the Canadian economy, not creating barriers between provinces,' Kinew implied through his metaphorical warning. His stance highlights the delicate balance provincial leaders must maintain between advocating for local interests and preserving national supply chains and brand integrity.
Context of Political Change
The Premier's comments were delivered on a day of significant political shift, marked by the resignation of Quebec's François Legault. Kinew acknowledged this change, suggesting it could alter the dynamics of federal-provincial relations. His simultaneous focus on the Crown Royal matter with Ontario indicates that trade and economic issues remain top of mind for provincial governments regardless of the political landscape in other regions.
Crown Royal, a whisky brand owned by Diageo, is produced in Gimli, Manitoba, but is a staple across Canada, including in Ontario, the nation's most populous market. Any disruption in its supply or distribution between the two provinces would have notable economic repercussions for both.
Broader Implications for Interprovincial Trade
This public exchange between Premiers Kinew and Ford sheds light on the ongoing complexities of interprovincial trade within Canada. While the Canadian Free Trade Agreement (CFTA) aims to reduce barriers, disputes over specific products, regulations, and economic advantages persist.
Kinew's choice of words—'shoot ourselves in the foot'—serves as a stark reminder that provincial rivalries can sometimes undermine broader national prosperity. His intervention seeks to steer the conversation towards collaboration, ensuring that iconic Canadian industries like spirits manufacturing are supported rather than hindered by internal politics.
The outcome of this discussion could set a precedent for how similar disputes are handled between provinces in the future, emphasizing negotiation over unilateral action.
