Alberta liquor producers and retailers are preparing for potential disruptions after the United States announced plans to impose 50 per cent tariffs on Canadian alcohol products beginning Aug.19.The proposed measure, introduced by U.S.President Donald Trump, has prompted concern among Alberta's craft distillers, many of whom were looking to expand into the American market.

Adam Smith, founder of Strathcona Spirits in Edmonton, said his company's plans to begin selling products in Florida and Washington have been put on hold because the proposed tariffs would make exporting significantly more difficult.He also argued that Alberta should respond by restricting imports of American liquor to support local producers.

Bryce Parsons, president of the Alberta Craft Distillers Association and CEO of True Wild Distilling, said the tariffs could eliminate an important growth opportunity for smaller distilleries, forcing businesses to seek new international markets despite the additional time and investment required.Retailers face a different set of challenges.David Owens, owner of Sherbrooke Liquor in Edmonton, said the ongoing uncertainty surrounding Canada-U.S.trade has made it difficult to predict business conditions.

While he remains unsure whether the tariffs will ultimately take effect, he noted that consumer demand for American wine has already declined sharply, leaving unsold inventory on store shelves.

Meanwhile, Alberta Premier Danielle Smith said she hopes negotiations between Canada and the United States will prevent the tariffs from being implemented.

At the same time, Alberta announced a new direct-to-consumer alcohol sales agreement with several other provinces, allowing Alberta breweries, wineries and distilleries to sell directly to consumers across much of Canada as part of broader efforts to reduce interprovincial trade barriers.