SAQ Resumes Sale of Select American Products

The Quebec government has authorized the Société des alcools du Québec (SAQ) to resume the sale of select American products. This decision focuses on items whose quality is in question until March 2027. The initiative aims to benefit food banks across the province, with estimated profits of nearly $9 million directed towards this cause.

SAQ Resumes Sale of Select American Products

Finance Minister Eric Girard described the initiative as an extraordinary measure to support Quebec residents. He emphasized that the overall ban on the sale of American products, imposed in March 2025 due to tariffs from the Trump administration, remains intact. Only items meeting specific quality criteria can be sold, while the SAQ is still prohibited from ordering new products from the USA.

Details of the Initiative

In August, the SAQ identified products that were approaching their expiry dates. As part of this initiative, 3,763 cases of American alcohol have already been distributed to 183 organizations throughout Quebec. The goal is to offer sellable bottles to the public for one year, generating funding for food banks, which are under significant pressure due to rising demand.

If all eligible products are sold, the SAQ could contribute as much as $8.6 million to the Banques Alimentaires du Québec (BAQ). Linda Bouchard, SAQ spokesperson, mentioned that operational costs and discounts would amount to roughly $4.9 million.

Discounts and Availability

• A 15% discount will apply to all American products sold.
• Sales will occur online or at SAQ Dépôt locations.
• Additional discounts of 5% and 10% will apply for bulk purchases of 6 to 11 bottles and 12 or more, respectively.

Martin Munger, the executive director of BAQ, welcomed the government’s decision, calling it an incredible development for the network. He highlighted the importance of this initiative in alleviating food insecurity, which has been on the rise.

Distribution and Support

Elodie De Smet, the communications director for BAQ, noted that funding will be equitably distributed among the network across the province. Discussions will take place as part of the organization’s 2026-2027 budget planning.

Political Context and Public Reaction

As the political climate evolves, Bouchard acknowledged that reactions might vary among the public. The SAQ previously faced controversy regarding a pilot project with Uber Eats for delivering products in Montreal. The government is hopeful that the public will view this decision as beneficial, given that without this measure, the products would have faced destruction, leading to waste and additional costs.

Chantal Rouleau, the minister responsible for Social Solidarity and Community Action, expressed full support for the initiative, underscoring the importance of solidarity during uncertain times.