Nova Scotia uncorks regulations for local alcohol producers

A selection of beverages is pictured at Benjamin Bridge Vineyards in Gaspereau, Kings County. (Source: Province of Nova Scotia)

The Nova Scotia government has announced changes to the way local alcohol can be sold across the province.

Changes to regulations will allow local alcohol producers to cross-sell their products at other storefront location owned and operated by producers of other local alcohol products like wine, cider, beer and spirits.

The other change drops the requirement for local producers to open a production facility inside any storefront they want to open.

This change is something the industry has been asking for, saying the addition of a production facility inside a storefront is a big investment.

The local industry sees this announcement as win for local producers that opens up new market opportunities.

“We are thrilled to see these progressive changes come to life,” said Andrew Tanner, president of the Nova Scotia Craft Brewers Association. “This will cut red tape and unlock new revenue streams and foster deeper collaborations between local brands and drive economic growth and tourism across Nova Scotia.”

There are close to 120 licensed alcohol producers in Nova Scotia. In 2025, sales of local products at NSLC stores totaled more than $150 million, an increase of $15.2 million over the previous year.

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