Quebec’s maple syrup producers’ association head has announced that the province’s strategic syrup reserve has been depleted due to high demand for the product. Luc Goulet, the president of Quebec Maple Syrup Producers, emphasized the need for government assistance to support the industry’s growth opportunities.
Maple syrup production is heavily influenced by weather conditions, prompting the establishment of a strategic reserve by the producers’ association to stabilize prices and supply. Last year, U.S. commercial customers stockpiled syrup in anticipation of potential tariffs imposed by then-President Donald Trump.
Goulet revealed that the strategic reserve has been fully utilized as sales continue to increase. He expressed concerns that if weather conditions are unfavorable for maple sap flow, the industry risks losing customers, referencing past market losses during stock shortages in 2007 and 2008.
On the international front, Quebec maple syrup is gaining market share, with exports rising by 9.34% in 2024 and 15.8% in 2025 amid tariff threats. However, the export growth rate slowed to 2.48% in 2026, compared to the previous year.
Acknowledging the demand for maple syrup as a positive challenge, Goulet sees untapped potential for growth within Quebec’s maple groves. He urged for increased investments from Quebec City to support producers and processors in exploring new markets globally.
Louis Turenne, the Maple Industry Council president, emphasized the importance of diversifying markets beyond the U.S., highlighting progress made in recent years. He stressed the need to accelerate market development in Europe, Australia, and Asia to reduce dependence on the U.S. market.
While the maple leaf symbolizes Canada, Quebec dominates the syrup industry, representing over 70% of North American production. In 2025, the maple syrup industry contributed $1.21 billion to Quebec’s GDP and supported over 10,000 full-time equivalent jobs, generating $285 million in tax revenue.
The sector’s economic significance was underscored during the recent election campaign, revealing the industry’s role as a vital employer and economic driver, particularly in Quebec municipalities where maple syrup production sustains local economies.