Trudeau news: List of GST/HST free items
Canadian Holiday Tax Break: What Items are Exempt from GST and HST
Canadian shoppers can look forward to some relief this holiday season as Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has announced a tax break on certain items. The tax break, which is still pending approval in the House of Commons, will last for two months and aims to ease the financial burden on Canadians.
Here is a detailed list of items that will be included in the tax break:
Food and Beverages
- Alcoholic beverages (wine, beer, ciders, and spirit coolers up to seven per cent alcohol by volume)
- Candies, fruits, seeds, nuts, popcorn coated or treated with sweeteners
- Salty snacks (chips, crisps, popcorn, etc.)
- Granola products, snack mixtures
- Frozen treats (ice cream, ice lollies, etc.)
- Fruit-based snack foods, pastries, desserts
- Prepared foods, beverages dispensed on-site
Kids’ Stuff and Games
- Children’s clothing, accessories, diapers
- Children’s car seats
- Toys, puzzles
- Video game consoles, physical editions of games
Literature and Trees
- Print newspapers
- Printed books, audiobooks
- Christmas trees
Understanding GST
GST, or goods and services tax, is a federal tax that applies to most goods and services in Canada. In some provinces, GST is blended with provincial sales tax to form HST, with rates ranging from five to 15 per cent. Basic groceries are exempt from GST/HST, including fruits, vegetables, milk products, meat, poultry, fish, eggs, and coffee.
This holiday tax break will provide Canadians with some financial relief during the festive season. Stay tuned for more updates on the approval and implementation of this tax break.
