EDMONTON – Alberta has resumed purchasing American alcohol and gambling machines, marking a shift just three months after Premier Danielle Smith had announced restrictions in response to U.S. tariffs imposed on Canadian goods. Service Alberta Minister Dale Nally articulated on Friday that this decision reflects a "renewed commitment to open and fair trade" with the United States.

In March, Premier Smith declared that the province would cease its procurement of U.S. alcohol and video lottery terminals (VLTs) and would no longer enter contracts with American companies. While Alberta's liquor stores are privately owned, they are required to order their inventory through the provincial government. This announcement came shortly after U.S. President Donald Trump implemented significant tariffs on Canadian products, including energy.

Following Smith's initial ban, other provincial leaders joined in, announcing similar restrictions on U.S. liquor alongside other proposed penalties. However, Nally's recent statement indicates a strategic pivot, suggesting that the decision to reinstate purchasing from U.S. suppliers would facilitate "more constructive negotiations" as the Canada-U.S.-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA) approaches its mandatory review in 2026. CUSMA, which was negotiated during Trump's first term, is crucial for trade relations between the countries involved.

Nally further noted that "Prime Minister Mark Carney has made a clear effort to reset the relationship with the U.S. administration, and Alberta's government supports this approach." The minister emphasized that the province seeks to highlight its role as a responsible and collaborative trading partner, continuing to advocate for a tariff-free relationship as negotiations progress.

Despite the return of American products to local shelves, Nally encouraged Albertans to continue supporting local producers, reinforcing the importance of domestic businesses. Interestingly, in April, the provincial government had already paused its policy on procurement from U.S. firms, a measure which Nally described as being taken "in the spirit of diplomacy."

This development illustrates Alberta's ongoing attempts to navigate the complexities of trade relations with the U.S., especially following the imposition of tariffs that have impacted various sectors within the province. As the situation evolves, the provincial government appears intent on balancing local interests while engaging in diplomatic efforts to foster better trade conditions.