Alberta reverses liquor price hike affecting bars and restaurants
The province has ordered the immediate rollback of minimum alcohol prices that would have raised a pint to $5 from $3.20.
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Alberta is reversing a minimum-price increase on alcohol served in bars and restaurants that sparked backlash from the hospitality sector and provincial politicians.
Service Minister Dale Nally said Monday the province has directed Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis (AGLC) to immediately reverse the increase, which would have raised the minimum price of a pint from $3.20 to $5—the first such hike since 2008. The reversal also affects minimum prices for beer, wine and spirits.
"We have since directed AGLC to reverse this decision, effective immediately, to provide businesses and Albertans with greater certainty and consistency," Nally said in a statement. He said the move is intended to restore certainty for businesses and keep costs stable, noting that the hospitality industry plays a key role in job creation and tourism.
The increase had drawn criticism from Calgary Mayor Jeromy Farkas, who called it a "fun police" move that would hurt bars, restaurants and Stampede-season workers. The reversal comes amid wider political tension over Calgary's new noise-bylaw changes affecting Stampede events, which industry leaders and Premier Danielle Smith have warned could harm jobs and the live-music scene.
AGLC had said the hike reflected inflation, supported moderation, and aligned with updated rules allowing early-morning alcohol service without special licences.