An agreement between the governments of Saskatchewan and British Columbia will allow the free flow of locally produced wine and spirits between the provinces.
The deal announced Friday by Premier Brad Wall and B.C. counterpart Christy Clark during the premiers' conference in Prince Edward Island will allow consumers to have wine and spirits delivered to their homes directly from producers in the other province.
The move toward freer trade is touted as a benefit to consumers and as a way of opening new markets for the craft distilling industry in both provinces. Saskatchewan joins B.C. and Manitoba in offering direct access to Canadian wines.
Wall said during a news conference that he hopes the agreement for wine will be in place by the end of this year and spirits by June 2015.
Consumers are currently limited to wines or spirits available for sale through Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Authority stores.
The agreement does not extend to trade in craft beer, but discussion on options to liberalize that trade will continue
