How Should Alberta Tax Liquor Manufacturers?

Official title: Alberta’s liquor manufacturing industry engagement

Closed Policy & Studies Economy & Jobs Finance & Consumer
Alberta is reviewing how it charges markup fees to liquor manufacturers. The current system hasn't been updated since 2003, and some producers say it's unfair. The government asked breweries, distilleries, and wineries whether small producers should get lower rates, and whether the markup should vary by alcohol content or product type.

Why This Matters

Own a craft brewery or distillery in Alberta? This directly affects your bottom line. Even if you just enjoy local beer or spirits, markup changes could affect prices and whether your favourite small producer stays in business.

What Could Change

Alberta may introduce a sliding scale markup tied to alcohol content. Small-scale domestic producers could get preferential rates. The province might also address barriers that prevent Alberta manufacturers from selling in other provinces.

Key Issues

  • Should small-scale Alberta producers get lower markup rates than large manufacturers?
  • Should markup rates vary based on alcohol content or product type?
  • What barriers prevent Alberta liquor manufacturers from selling in other provinces?

What Happened

Service Alberta and Red Tape Reduction compiled feedback from stakeholder engagement to develop policy options for the Minister's consideration. The engagement gathered input from liquor manufacturers and their associations on markup approaches, preferential rates, and barriers to interprovincial trade.