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Albertans to Pay Higher Wine Prices Starting April 1
This is the final weekend to stock up on wine before Alberta’s new tax increases take effect on Tuesday. The province will implement a 15-cent flat-rate increase per 750 ml bottle of wine, along with a new value-added tax for more expensive bottles. For example, a $25 bottle will see a price increase of 20 to 40 cents, while a $50 bottle will cost approximately $3 more.
These changes, outlined in the 2025 provincial budget, aim to address industry concerns and support Alberta’s liquor manufacturing sector. The Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis Commission (AGLC) will introduce a tiered markup system based on price, with additional revenue going into the province’s general fund.
Since privatization in the 1990s, Alberta’s liquor markup has been a flat rate based on alcohol volume. This is the first time a price-based markup structure will be implemented. Retailers and importers will initially absorb the markup, but consumers can expect to see the increased cost passed on at checkout.
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