Perth-Wellington MP John Nater, Conservative critic for interprovincial trade and the sharing economy issued a statement on June 28 in response to recent developments in the beer and wine industries.
“As many Canadians look forward to enjoying a glass of beer or wine, our small Canadian breweries and wineries continue to suffer as a result of the Liberal government’s failure to reduce interprovincial trade barriers,” Nater stated.
“With continued uncertainty surrounding the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), now more than ever a renewed focus on internal trade is needed.
However, instead of addressing the concerns of craft breweries, wineries and distilleries, the Liberals’ escalator tax on alcohol is making it harder for these local businesses to remain competitive. Justin Trudeau continues to prioritize raising taxes, over building a strong national economy,” the MP added.
“Canadians are frustrated by the outdated rules that govern the sale of alcohol. Meanwhile, premiers have indicated a willingness to speed up efforts to reduce trade barriers. The Liberals should build off of this momentum and ensure that Canadians breweries and wineries can finally sell their quality products across the country,” he continued.
“Canada’s Conservatives will continue to advocate for reduced interprovincial trade barriers and free trade within Canada. It’s time to free the beer and cork the tax,” he concluded.
