Quebec’s backup supply of maple syrup is nearly empty, and the Quebec Maple Syrup Producers expects it to run out by February. Canada is the world’s largest maple syrup producer, with Quebec providing 90% of its output in 2025. The reserve stores syrup that can help balance supplies when production falls.
Americans rushed to buy Canadian syrup in 2025 ahead of expected tariffs, or taxes on imported goods, under President Donald Trump. Canada’s syrup exports rose nearly 16% that year, while production fell 5%. Export growth slowed to 2.5% during the first eight months of 2026. Producers will continue making syrup, but an empty reserve cannot provide extra supplies if unfavorable weather reduces output. The reserve’s three warehouses can hold about 218,000 barrels.
Despite the shrinking reserve, Simon Doré-Ouellet, the producer group’s deputy general manager, says market supplies are secure for the coming year. However, the reserve needs to be rebuilt over the next few years. Quebec has increased its production capacity by 50% in six years, adding more than 21 million taps where liquid can be collected from maple trees. A strong production season in 2027 could help restore stocks, although producers have little control over the weather.
