B.C. tax changes affecting sugary drinks, vaping products coming into effect April 1

Tax changes targeting sugary drinks and e-commerce services based outside of B.C. will come into effect on April 1 after being delayed by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The B.C. government says the changes include the elimination of the provincial sales tax exemption for carbonated beverages that contain sugar, natural sweeteners or artificial sweeteners.

The tax will apply to all beverages dispensed through soda fountains or similar equipment, along with all beverages dispensed through vending machines.

The government says the move is supported by health professionals.

The second tax change will apply to those selling digital software and telecommunication services, who will be required to collect the PST on sales to B.C. customers if they have revenue in the province of more than $10,000.

All Canadian sellers of vapour products, such as vape pens, will be required to register to collect the sales tax on all online or mail-order sales to B.C. customers as part of the new measure.