Ontario Premier Doug Ford warns the LCBO to clear U.S. booze if tariffs hit, pushing for local products instead.
Toronto: Ontario Premier Doug Ford is making some bold moves. He’s told the LCBO to clear out all U.S. alcohol if Trump goes ahead with those tariffs he’s been threatening.
Ford shared this at a conference in Toronto, right on the day Trump was inaugurated. He’s really pushing for Ontario-made wines and spirits instead. “Let’s promote our own stuff,” he said.
He believes that since Ontario is a huge buyer of alcohol, they can hit back hard. Ford wants other premiers to join him in this effort. It’s all about supporting local businesses.
Trump’s proposed tariffs are part of his push for tighter border security. Even though Canada has laid out a plan, Trump isn’t backing down. He’s been talking about a 25% tariff on Canadian and Mexican exports.
While Trump might not impose new tariffs right away, he’s still looking into trade deficits and unfair practices. Canada and Mexico are on his radar, and he’s got his sights set on China too.
In response, Canada is ready to retaliate. Reports say the LCBO might stop buying American products if those tariffs come into play. Ford’s been vocal about the potential job losses, estimating up to 500,000 jobs could be at risk in Ontario.
He’s even hinted that if it comes to spending big to stimulate the economy, he’d let the people decide through an election. But for now, he’s keeping his options open, saying, “Let’s see where the tariffs go.”
