Spirits Industry Warns Trade Barriers Will Hurt Hospitality Economy

Chris Swonger, President and CEO of the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States, warns that restrictions on cross-border trade will harm the hospitality economy on both sides of the US-Canada border. He notes that the US represents 93% of the Canadian spirits industry, underscoring the deep integration of the two markets. Swonger explains that the spirits industry has historically thrived with no trade barriers and zero-to-zero tariffs, and he cautions that new restrictions could reverse these gains. Beyond trade, the sector faces mounting pressures from GLP-1 medications, which may reduce alcohol consumption, as well as younger consumers drinking less and ongoing inflationary challenges. In this interview, Swonger provides a compelling case for maintaining open trade and highlights the multifaceted threats facing the spirits industry. His insights shed light on the broader implications for hospitality and cross-border economic relations.