Quebec’s maple syrup producers’ association head reveals that the province’s reserve of strategic syrup has been depleted due to high consumer demand. Luc Goulet, the president of Québec Maple Syrup Producers, emphasizes the necessity of government assistance to ensure the industry’s sustainable growth.
The production of maple syrup is heavily influenced by weather conditions, prompting the establishment of a strategic reserve by the producers’ association to maintain stable prices and supply. In the previous year, U.S. commercial clients stockpiled syrup amid concerns about potential tariffs imposed by former President Donald Trump.
Goulet states that the reserve has been completely used up as sales continue to surge. He warns that if weather conditions become unfavorable for maple sap flow, the industry risks losing customers, as experienced during stock shortages in 2007 and 2008, leading consumers to seek alternative sweet products.
Louis Turenne, the president of the Maple Industry Council representing authorized buyers, reports a rise in Quebec maple syrup exports, with a notable 9.34% increase in 2024 and a 15.8% surge in 2025 due to tariff threats. However, the growth rate slowed to 2.48% in 2026 from January to August compared to the same period the previous year.
Acknowledging the demand as a positive challenge, Goulet believes there is untapped potential in Quebec’s maple groves for further industry expansion. He expresses dissatisfaction with the current level of investments from Quebec City and calls for increased support from the newly elected Parti Québécois government.
Turenne suggests that Quebec could boost production by offering financial aid to producers and assisting processors in exploring new overseas markets. While nearly 65% of maple syrup exports go to the United States currently, efforts have been made to diversify markets, reducing dependence on the U.S. market from 80% two decades ago.
The maple syrup industry is predominantly concentrated in Quebec, contributing significantly to the province’s economy. In 2025, the sector added $1.21 billion to the GDP, employing over 10,000 full-time equivalent workers and generating $285 million in tax revenue. The industry’s importance as a key employer and economic driver was underscored during the recent election campaign.