N.B. government seeks more free movement of alcohol across Canada

By: The Canadian Press Posted: Last Modified:

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FREDERICTON - New Brunswick's Liberal government wants to make it easier to move alcohol across provincial boundaries.

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Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 19/03/2025 (559 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

FREDERICTON – New Brunswick’s Liberal government wants to make it easier to move alcohol across provincial boundaries.

The province on Wednesday introduced amendments to the Liquor Control Act that would allow New Brunswickers to buy alcohol directly from certain provinces and territories, and to bring liquor into the province free of personal exemption limits.

New Brunswick producers would also be able to sell alcohol directly to other provinces.

A shopping cart is shown at a government-run BC Liquor Store in Vancouver, on Friday, August 19, 2022. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Darryl Dyck
A shopping cart is shown at a government-run BC Liquor Store in Vancouver, on Friday, August 19, 2022. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Darryl Dyck

Premier Susan Holt had recently hinted at this move, saying people in her province want to enjoy B.C. wines the same way British Columbians want to enjoy beer from New Brunswick craft breweries.

The move comes as Canada faces mounting tariffs from the United States, with President Donald Trump promising more levies are to come Canada’s way on April 2.

The trade war has already affected the provincial government’s budget, with the Liberals forecasting a $549-million deficit for the 2025-26 fiscal year and setting aside $50-million to deal with the tariffs’ impact.

A government spokesman said the legislation is a first step in breaking down interprovincial barriers.

Before New Brunswickers can actually order liquor from retailers outside the province, the government will have to sign agreements with other interested provinces and then amend regulations.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published March 19, 2025.

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