Shirley Bond, Minister of Jobs, Tourism and Skills Training and Minister Responsible for Labour, has issued the following statement today in response to today’s launch of a WTO trade challenge against B.C. wine in grocery stores policy:

“We are proud of the world-class products that B.C. wineries produce, the jobs that they create,  the positive contributions they make to B.C.’s economy.

“Our framework for liquor sales in grocery stores lays the foundation for a flexible and unique model that will continue to protect health and public safety, enhance convenience and choice for consumers. 

“We talked to thousands of British Columbians about what they wanted to see regarding liquor sales. We listened and  we delivered.

“We support the growth of the industry, and we will defend it against this challenge. The B.C. government is confident that we are complying with B.C.’s and Canada’s international trade obligations.

“We will continue to work closely with Global Affairs Canada (GAC) to ensure that B.C.’s liquor policies fall within these trade obligations, and we will continue to work with GAC through the upcoming consultation process.

“In B.C., the number of liquor stores selling imported alcohol has increased significantly since 1987 from 344 to approximately 1,100 today (1,106 for all imports plus 11 stores selling imported wine) 100% B.C. wine sales represent approximately 17% of all provincial wine sales .

“Trade agreements such as NAFTA allow for a number of private wine outlets that sell only B.C. wine, and we are confident in the approach we have taken.”