U.S. Expands Import Bans on Canadian Alcohol, Whey and Motorcycles as Trade War Escalates

The trade dispute between the United States and Canada is escalating, with the Trump administration moving beyond tariffs to impose import bans on several Canadian products, including alcoholic beverages, whey, molasses and larger-capacity motorcycles.

President Donald Trump signed proclamations on Sept. 8 directing that certain Canadian products be excluded from entering the United States beginning Sept. 29, 2026. The restrictions largely replace previously imposed 50% tariffs on the targeted goods.

The alcohol restrictions cover a broad range of products, including certain Canadian beer, wine, cider and spirits such as whisky, vodka and gin. The move comes after several Canadian provinces and retailers restricted the sale of American alcoholic beverages following earlier U.S. trade actions.

Canadian whisky could be particularly affected. In 2023, 17.5 million nine-liter cases of Canadian whisky were sold in the United States, generating approximately $2.3 billion in revenue for Canadian distillers, according to industry data cited by The Associated Press.

Whey is another major target. The dairy byproduct is widely used in protein powders and other food products. Demand for products containing added protein has increased sharply in recent years. U.S. trade data showed Canada supplied nearly half of the $73.6 million in general and modified whey imported by the United States in 2025, although the products covered by the ban represent a smaller portion of that total.

The restrictions also cover larger motorcycles and mopeds. Canadian-made motorcycles subject to the ban accounted for roughly $80.6 million of U.S. motorcycle imports in 2025.

At the same time, the administration is modifying its tariff list. Products including rock salt and cement are being removed, while other goods, including all-terrain vehicles and animal hides, are being added to the tariff structure effective Sept. 15.

The latest U.S. actions came the same day Canada imposed approximately $20 billion in new retaliatory tariffs on American exports. U.S. officials describe the measures as a response to what they characterize as discriminatory Canadian trade practices, while Canadian officials have defended their retaliatory actions as necessary to protect domestic businesses and workers.

Trade experts warn that continued escalation could increase costs, disrupt supply chains and reduce consumer choices on both sides of the border.