Spike in sale of Jamaican rum attributed mainly to growth in Canadian demand

The Campari Group, owner of J. Wray & Nephew, says sales of Jamaican rum climbed to US$119 million during the first nine months of last year, up from $106 million in the corresponding period of 2024.

 

The company attributes the increase mainly to stronger international demand, led by growth in the Canadian market.

 

Campari says the surge in Canadian sales followed a decision by the Liquor Control Board of Ontario — one of North America's largest alcohol retailers — to suspend imports of American alcoholic products early last year amid escalating trade tensions with the United States, which resulted in a 25 per cent tariff on Canadian exports.

 

Acting on a directive from the Ontario Government, the board halted all imports of US spirits, wines, beer, cider and ready-to-drink products from its stores and online platforms in several provinces, including British Columbia and Nova Scotia.