Canadian trade talks spark bourbon export dip, affecting prices

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney delivered a speech in the hemicycle of the European Parliament in Strasbourg, eastern France, on September 17, 2026, as part of a trip that welcomed a proposal by European Commission President for Canada to become the EU’s first associate member.

The growing trade dispute between the United States and Canada is affecting Kentucky bourbon, Canadian consumers and major industries on both sides of the border. Todd Hirsch joined Point Taken to explain why American alcohol sales have fallen sharply in Canada and how the dispute could eventually affect consumer prices. Kentucky officials say spirits exports to Canada fell by as much as 85% as trade tensions disrupted one of the industry’s most important international markets, and Gov. Andy Beshear cited that decline in a September letter urging President Donald Trump to change his tariff policies.

Hirsch said the drop is partly tied to how alcohol is sold in Canada, where provincial governments have significant authority over liquor purchasing and distribution, allowing them to remove American products from store shelves. You can check out more from Point Taken on the podcast page or on the YouTube playlist, and subscribe to the Extra Points weekly newsletter for exclusive interviews, polls, book recommendations, and more.

Read the full story at wtmj.com.