Ontario Stopping Scheduled Beer Tax Increase

Two-year freeze will keep costs down while supporting hospitality and alcohol sectors

The Ontario government is keeping costs down and supporting the province’s alcohol and hospitality sectors by stopping the estimated 4.6 per cent increase to the beer basic tax and LCBO mark-up rates that was scheduled for March 1, 2024. This increase would have resulted from rates being indexed to inflation, which the government has consistently stopped over the last six years, resulting in approximately $200 million in relief. This latest freeze will be in place for two years, until March 1, 2026.

This action 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.

In the months ahead, the government will continue to meet and consult with industry partners, beverage alcohol producers and other stakeholders to ensure a smooth, safe and stable transition to a new marketplace. The province will also conduct a targeted 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.