The two provinces have renewed their memorandum of understanding to make it easier for Albertans to buy wine from B.C. while ensuring out-of-province wineries pay their fair share of fees from liquor sales in Alberta. The agreement also keeps the door open for Alberta wineries to sell directly to customers in B.C., supporting local businesses by expanding market access.
“Alberta already has the most open liquor market in Canada, and we’re not slowing down. We’re knocking down barriers to give consumers more choice while helping local businesses in our province grow.”
The agreement cuts red tape, provides a path forward to get more Alberta products on B.C. shelves, improves data sharing, and ensures systems work better for consumers, producers and governments. Through this agreement, Alberta continues to lead Canada with the most open and competitive liquor market, giving Albertans access to the widest selection of products.
“I appreciate Alberta taking the lead in fixing ad valorem and moving full access forward. This progress matters, and we look forward to a permanent solution that supports Canadian wineries. Alberta, by doing this, is showing that it is leading Canada in opening up interprovincial trade. Thank you, Minister Nally and Premier Smith.”
With more than 300 wineries currently operating in B.C., the agreement expands consumer choice and makes the liquor market more competitive. The agreement will remain in effect until March 31, 2027, and may be extended or replaced with a longer-term arrangement.
Quick facts
- Alberta’s liquor system is fully privatized with more than 1,600 retailers that have access to over 34,000 liquor products through Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis.
- There are no barriers to listing a product in Alberta, as licensed liquor agents can pick and choose any products to bring into the province.
- As of February 2026, there are 26 licensed wine and mead producers in Alberta.
- As of January 2025, there are 306 licensed grape wineries in B.C.
Related information
Related news
- From vine to wine, B.C. and Alberta reach deal (July 16, 2024)