Saskatchewan marks up SLGA sales of U.S. liquor

Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe announced on September 7th that the Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Authority will increase the cost of U.S. liquor sold by the provincial distributor by 50 percent starting September 8th. This move mirrors U.S. tariffs imposed on Canadian liquor. Alex Wasylenko, manager of the Sutherland Beer and Wine Store, is uncertain if this price increase will be passed down to consumers once the remaining stock sells out.

Wasylenko has been encouraging customers to buy Canadian products despite the ongoing trade war. He believes that while some customers may switch to Canadian beverages, they will continue to stock U.S. liquor if that's what customers desire. Economist Jason Childs suggests some U.S. producers might absorb part of the cost to retain customers.

Children's analysis indicates a possible decrease in alcohol sales per capita in Saskatchewan and Canada. Hospitality Saskatchewan President Jim Bence warns that not all cost increases can be passed to consumers, leading operators to potentially absorb the burden. He anticipates that businesses will adapt to the situation while maintaining customer comfort.