Beer Canada applauds Government of Ontario’s decision to freeze the Ontario Beer Basic Tax

TORONTO, ON - February 9, 2024  - Beer Canada welcomes the Government of Ontario’s decision to freeze the Ontario Beer Basic Tax for at least two years, until March 1, 2026.

“The decision today by Ontario Finance Minister Bethlenfalvy to freeze Ontario beer taxes until at least 2026 is fabulous news for brewers of all sizes, consumers and our hospitality and tourism partners” said CJ Hélie, President of Beer Canada.  “Minister Bethlenfalvy’s commitment to beer price and tax stability at this time of an affordability crisis for many Ontario families and businesses is the right decision at the right time” Hélie added.   

Beer Canada advocates for fair and responsible beer tax policies and regulations. We strongly encourage all levels of government to prioritize maintaining price stability for hardworking Canadian families. Adopting practical and sensible policies by both provincial and federal governments including freezing beer taxes during this period of persistent high inflation and interest rates, provides crucial support for jobs and the economy.

For link to Government of Ontario News: https://news.ontario.ca/en/release/1004172/ontario-stopping-scheduled-beer-tax-increase 

Beer Canada is the sole national inclusive voice advocating on behalf of Canadian brewers of all sizes and regions and Canadian beer consumers.

Beer Canada’s member companies brew 90% of all beer consumed by Canadians annually. The production, distribution and sale of beer supports 149,000 Canadian jobs, generates $13.6 billion in Gross Domestic Product and $5.7 billion in government tax revenues.

Beer Canada promotes moderate and responsible consumption by those of the legal age and is the authoritative source for data & information on the Canadian beer industry.