The province is putting the brakes on a hike in beer tax and LCBO mark-ups.
Announced this morning, the 4.6 per cent increase to the beer basic tax and LCBO mark-up rates was scheduled for March 1. This latest freeze will be in place for two years, until March 1, 2026.
“Our government is constantly looking for ways to make life more affordable for Ontario families by putting more money back into their pockets,” said Premier Doug Ford in a news release. “From stopping increases to the beer tax to cutting the gas tax, we are keeping costs down for businesses and families across the province.”
This province says the move "builds on the government’s decision to improve choice and convenience for consumers while supporting the beer sector’s transition towards a new alcohol retail marketplace."
Starting no later than January 1, 2026, consumers in Ontario will have access to beer, wine, cider and ready-to-drink alcohol beverages in participating convenience, grocery and big box grocery across the province, said the release.
The province will also conduct a review of taxes and fees on beer, wine and alcoholic beverages with the aim of promoting a more competitive marketplace for Ontario-based producers and consumers.
