Northwest Territories Cannabis Tax Rate
15% combinedRegulator: NWT Liquor and Cannabis Commission · Retail model: Limited Access · 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 |
Featured product · Cannabis PromotionsAd
Custom Puff Case (Lighter + Joint Holder)
As low as $4.99 · Ships in ~5 business days
Lighter + joint holder combo case, branded.
Northwest Territories Cannabis Tax Notes
Northwest Territories applies only the 5% federal GST on cannabis. The NWT Liquor and Cannabis Commission runs a limited retail footprint (mail order + select stores). Combined effective retail rate ~15%.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cannabis tax rate in Northwest Territories?
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, Northwest Territories's total effective cannabis tax is roughly 15%.
Who sells legal cannabis in Northwest Territories?
Northwest Territories uses a limited access retail model administered by the NWT Liquor and Cannabis Commission. Northwest Territories has very limited retail footprint (often mail-order + a few government stores).
Is medical cannabis taxed in Northwest Territories?
Medical cannabis purchased from federally licensed sellers in Northwest Territories 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 Northwest Territories charge GST, HST, or PST on cannabis?
Northwest Territories only applies the 5% federal GST to cannabis — there is no separate provincial sales tax.
Planning compliant packaging for Northwest Territories?
Leave your email and our team will send over a free cost sheet for exit bags, labels, and custom accessories for Northwest Territories — no obligation.