Canadian business group backs MP bill in favour of cross-border shipping of alcohol

Photo: Contributed

MP Dan Albas

A national business federation has joined Dan Albas in advocating in favour of the cross-border shipment of alcohol.

The Central Okanagan-Similkameen-Nicola MP introduced a Private Members Bill, C-260, which would amend the Canada Post Act and make it legal for producers of Canadian wines, spirits and craft beers to ship their product within Canada by Canada Post.

Albas received a letter of support Friday from the Canadian Federation of Independent Business.

“Like many sectors of the economy since the beginning of the pandemic, many small brewers, vintners, and distillers have had to make considerable efforts to sell more of their products online in order to generate revenues. As a result, being able to access a wider range of customers across the country is now vital to their survival," the letter stated.

"Allowing small producers to ship across the country would enable Canadians to safely access their products while directly supporting local businesses and jobs.”

Albas says he was pleased the business federation shared his view that the bill will help small businesses across the country open up new markets.

“I look forward to seeing similar support coming from local and provincial governments, as well as chambers of commerce," said Albas.

Summerland winery owner Ron Kubek has started a House of Commons e-petition in support of the bill.