The modernization of PEI’s liquor laws and regulations are taking another step forward with recent changes to the province’s Liquor Control Act.

Changes made in the 2021 fall session of the Legislative Assembly come into effect December 18, 2021 and include:

• the ability for patrons to bring their own commercially manufactured wine into a licensed dining room and leave the establishment with a recorked bottle;
• permission for general retail stores to sell low percentage alcohol to a maximum of 0.5% Alcohol by Volume (ABV); and
• the elimination of domestic personal importation limits for anyone coming to the Island if the product is safely stowed in their luggage or vehicle.

“Many of these changes are consistent with current liquor laws across Canada, and will certainly support our local liquor stores, microbreweries, wineries, distilleries, and restaurant establishments in staying competitive with other jurisdictions,” said Finance Minister and Minister Responsible for the Liquor Control Commission Darlene Compton. “These updates help modernize the Act, while ensuring measures for social responsibility remain in place across the Island.”

These changes come as a result of recommendations from various reports including most recently the Premier’s Council for Recovery and Growth that found modernizing the Liquor Control Act would help local enterprises be more competitive.

The PEI Liquor Control Commission encourages all Islanders to drink responsibly this holiday season, and always plan for a sober ride home.