Federal tax hikes are hitting a crucial industry in British Columbia at the worst possible time. The alcohol industry across B.C. has had a tough couple months. Between forest fires, droughts and cold snaps, wine-growers and craft brewers will have a harder time turning a profit this year. And Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is about to make things even worse. In April, Trudeau is hiking federal taxes on beer, wine and spirits by almost five per cent.
Taxes already account for about half the price you pay for alcoholic beverages. That means every time you buy a bottle of wine or a six-pack of your favourite craft beer, you’re also buying one for the taxman. To add insult to injury, the tax hike is automatic, meaning our elected MPs won’t vote on the increased taxes on wine and other alcoholic beverages. Back in 2017, the Trudeau government introduced a tax escalator on alcoholic beverages. The escalator means the taxes on beer, wine, ciders and spirits goes up automatically every year, without a vote in Parliamen