American Whiskey Trade Group Applauds GOP Push to Investigate Canada’s US Alcohol Boycott

American Whiskey Association President and CEO Michael Bilello participates in high-level discussions on trade, market access, moderation policy and the global future of American whiskey. (Photo: American Whiskey Association)

The American Whiskey Association is backing new legislation that would require the U.S. Trade Representative to investigate whether Canadian provinces are unfairly restricting American whiskey and other U.S. alcoholic beverages.

The trade group’s statement comes days after Rep. Claudia Tenney, R-N.Y., introduced the Combating Attacks on our National Alcoholic Drinks by Allies (CANADA) Act, which would direct the U.S. Trade Representative to launch a Section 301 investigation into Canada’s provincial liquor boards.

If approved, the investigation would determine whether provincial restrictions on importing and selling American alcohol violate U.S. trade law and warrant retaliatory action.

“Congressional attention to Canadian provincial restrictions on American alcoholic beverages is both timely and warranted,” AWA President and CEO Michael Bilello said in a statement.

The legislation marks the latest escalation in an ongoing trade dispute that began in early 2025, when Ontario Premier Doug Ford ordered the province’s liquor stores to remove U.S. alcohol products from shelves in response to U.S. tariff threats. Most Canadian provinces later adopted similar restrictions, and American spirits exports to Canada fell sharply.

Ford has since vowed not to reverse the boycott unless the United States removes its tariffs on Canadian goods.

Canada has historically been one of the largest export markets for American whiskey, making the provincial restrictions particularly significant for U.S. producers.

According to the AWA, the impact extends beyond distilleries to grain farmers, white oak suppliers, cooperages, warehouse workers, logistics providers, exporters and hospitality businesses throughout the American whiskey supply chain.

“American whiskey is not asking for special treatment,” Bilello said. “It is asking for fair treatment.”

A Section 301 investigation is a formal trade mechanism used by the U.S. government to determine whether another country’s policies are unfair or discriminatory. If violations are found, the process can lead to negotiations or additional trade measures.

The AWA said it will continue working with lawmakers and policymakers to restore access to the Canadian market while supporting fair competition for American whiskey producers.

The association joins other industry organizations, including the American Craft Spirits Association, Wine Institute and WineAmerica, in supporting congressional efforts to address Canada’s restrictions on American alcohol.