Good news for local breweries! Ontario and Nova Scotia have signed a historic agreement allowing residents to buy alcohol directly from producers in the other province. The deal, announced March 2, opens the door for breweries, wineries and distilleries to sell their products online and deliver them to consumers’ homes.
Before the agreement, Ontario residents could only purchase out-of-province alcohol through the LCBO, its Private Ordering Program, or by transporting it themselves. Starting today, producers in both provinces can apply for the necessary approvals to sell directly to consumers.
Officials say the agreement will remove barriers to interprovincial trade, give consumers more choice, and create new opportunities for local businesses. Ontario Premier Doug Ford and Nova Scotia Premier Tim Houston said the deal is a step toward nationwide free trade for alcohol.
The agreement builds on Ontario’s existing trade deals with 10 other provinces and territories, which aim to unlock $200 billion in economic growth while supporting Canadian alcohol producers.
