Winnipeg 
The Manitoba government is launching a temporary program to redirect revenue from U.S.-made liquor toward community organizations, using existing inventory to support residents facing hardship.
The decision follows an earlier directive from Premier Wab Kinew instructing Manitoba Liquor and Lotteries (MBLL) to pull American alcohol from shelves in response to tariffs imposed by former U.S. president Donald Trump.
Kinew said the new approach allows Manitobans to contribute to families in need, noting that the province has “been resilient against Donald Trump’s tariffs.” Under the plan, MBLL will release select U.S. liquor products for a limited period, with net proceeds, up to $500,000, to be donated to six charities.
Beginning Dec. 8, private retailers and liquor service businesses, including rural vendors, beer vendors, specialty wine stores, restaurants and lounges, can order eligible U.S. products.
Public access will roll out on Dec. 10 in 12 Liquor Mart locations, with full product selections available by Dec. 13. Sales will continue until Dec. 24, and MBLL confirms that all items meet quality and expiry standards.
The organizations set to receive funding are:
- Christmas Cheer Board of Greater Winnipeg Inc.
- Harvest Manitoba
- Brandon-Westman Christmas Cheer Registry
- Helping Hands Centre of Brandon
- Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak Inc.
- Boys and Girls Club of Thompson
Municipal and Northern Relations Minister Glen Simard, who oversees MBLL, said the measure provides additional holiday purchasing options while ensuring unused stock can benefit the community. He reiterated the government’s position that removing U.S. alcohol remains appropriate during what he described as an economic challenge created by “illegal tariffs.”
Simard also encouraged consumers to continue supporting Manitoba’s craft liquor producers throughout the holiday period.
