Doug Ford Says Ontario Will Maintain Ban on U.S. Alcohol Until 50% U.S. Steel Tariffs Lifted or Trade Deal Reached

Ontario Premier Doug Ford has stated that the province will maintain its ban on American wine and liquor imports until U.S. tariffs on Canadian steel are lifted or a trade agreement is reached. Ford criticized the current tariff situation, noting that the U.S. imposes a 50% tariff on Canadian steel while Canada only applies a 25% tariff on American steel, describing this as unfair. He emphasized the need for changes in response to what he characterized as the U.S. using Canada as a dumping ground. Ford indicated that Ontario still has a few months before it must begin removing the ban, contrasting the province's stance with Quebec's approach. His position follows Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's decision to impose counter-tariffs on the U.S., which some commentators have viewed as inconsistent with earlier campaign rhetoric. Ford's measures have sparked debate about government intervention in consumer choices and the broader economic impact amid concerns about a potential recession in Canada.