Quebec’s maple syrup producers’ association head has revealed that the province’s strategic syrup reserve has been exhausted due to high demand. Luc Goulet, the president of Québec Maple Syrup Producers, emphasized the necessity of government assistance to ensure the industry’s growth potential is not hindered.

Weather conditions significantly impact maple syrup yields, prompting the producers’ association to establish a strategic reserve to maintain stable prices and supply. Last year, U.S. commercial customers stockpiled syrup amid fears of potential tariffs by former President Donald Trump.

Goulet expressed concerns as sales continue to rise, stating that the strategic reserve has been depleted. He highlighted the risk of losing customers if weather conditions do not favor maple sap flow, citing past stock shortages in 2007 and 2008 that led to market losses.

Louis Turenne, president of the Maple Industry Council representing authorized buyers, reported a growing market share for Quebec maple syrup internationally. Export figures saw a 9.34% rise in 2024 and a significant 15.8% increase in 2025 amidst tariff threats. However, the export growth rate slowed to 2.48% in 2026 compared to the same period the previous year.

Acknowledging the positive demand for maple syrup, Goulet believes there is untapped potential in Quebec’s maple groves and emphasized the need for increased investments from Quebec City. Turenne suggested that financial support for producers and assistance in exploring new overseas markets could boost production.

Quebec heavily dominates the maple syrup industry, accounting for over 70% of North American production. The sector’s economic contribution to the GDP in 2025 was $1.21 billion, supporting over 10,000 full-time equivalent jobs and generating substantial tax revenue. The industry’s significance as a key employer and economic driver was highlighted during the recent election campaign, surprising many candidates with its vital role in various municipalities.