Sask. government introduces bill to apply sales tax on vaping products

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The Saskatchewan government has introduced legislation that would apply the provincial sales tax of six per cent to vaping products.

Finance Minister Jim Reiter says the tax aims to discourage the use of vapes, especially among young people who are at risk of negative long-term health effects.

He says nicotine exposure harms brain development in youth and can lead to problems with learning, memory and mood.

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The province anticipates the tax to generate $3 million in annual revenue.

A separate tax of 20 per cent already applies to vaping products in Saskatchewan, including e-cigarettes and cartridges. Tobacco products are also taxed at separate rates in addition to the PST.

In February 2024, the legal minimum age to buy tobacco products in Saskatchewan rose from 18 to 19. The change brought alcohol, marijuana and all tobacco and vapour products in alignment at the same minimum age for purchase.

Legislation for the change was introduced back in the fall of 2023.

“It is important for us to protect Saskatchewan youth from the dangers of tobacco and vapour products,” said former health minister Everett Hindley when it came into force last year.

— with files from the Regina Leader-Post

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