Should Alberta Change How It Taxes Liquor Manufacturers?

Official title: Alberta’s liquor manufacturing industry engagement

Closed Policy & Studies Economy & Jobs Finance & Consumer
Alberta asked liquor manufacturers whether the province's markup system is fair. The current system hasn't been reviewed since 2003, and some producers feel they're being treated unfairly compared to competitors. The government wanted to know if small producers need special rates and what barriers Alberta companies face selling in other provinces.

Why This Matters

If you enjoy Alberta-made beer, wine, or spirits, this could affect what's available and how much it costs. Small craft producers say the current system favours big players. Changes could help local distilleries and breweries compete—or raise prices if markups increase.

What Could Change

Alberta may introduce a sliding scale markup tied to alcohol content. Small-scale domestic producers could get preferential rates. New rules might require using Alberta ingredients like barley or wheat to qualify for lower markups.

Key Issues

  • Should small-scale Alberta producers get lower markup rates than large manufacturers?
  • Should markups be tied to alcohol content on a sliding scale?
  • Should producers using Alberta raw materials like barley get preferential rates?
  • What barriers prevent Alberta 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 and barriers to interprovincial trade.