Alberta Cannabis Tax Rate
15% combinedRegulator: Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis Commission (AGLC) · Retail model: Private Retail · Updated for 2026
5% Added at the register (5% GST)
≈15% Total effective incl. the ~10% federal excise embedded in the shelf price
Tax Breakdown
| Tax | Rate | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Federal Cannabis Excise Duty | ~10% | Greater of $1/g or 10% of producer list price (baked into retail price) |
| Federal GST | 5% | 5% federal Goods & Services Tax |
| Provincial PST | 0% | No provincial sales tax |
| Added at the register | 5% | Sales tax applied to the shelf price at checkout |
| Total Effective Rate | ≈15% | Register tax + the ~10% federal excise embedded in the shelf price |
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Alberta Cannabis Tax Notes
Alberta applies only the federal 5% GST on top of the baked-in federal cannabis excise duty. The AGLC adds a provincial wholesale markup (~$0.97/g) to prices, but no PST. Combined effective retail tax averages ~15%.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cannabis tax rate in Alberta?
At the register you pay 5% GST on top of the shelf price. Counting the ~10% federal excise duty already baked into the producer price, Alberta's total effective cannabis tax is roughly 15%.
Who sells legal cannabis in Alberta?
Alberta uses a private retail retail model administered by the Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis Commission (AGLC). Licensed private retailers compete for customers, similar to how liquor retail works in Alberta.
Is medical cannabis taxed in Alberta?
Medical cannabis purchased from federally licensed sellers in Alberta is subject to the same federal excise duty and GST/HST/PST as adult-use cannabis. Patients can, however, claim eligible expenses under the Medical Expense Tax Credit (METC) on their federal income tax return.
Does Alberta charge GST, HST, or PST on cannabis?
Alberta only applies the 5% federal GST to cannabis — there is no separate provincial sales tax.
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