As of June 7, 2012, British Columbians are now able to import liquor across provincial borders without paying additional taxes. Although BC, along with other provinces, does not allow personal interprovincial alcohol importation without the payment of provincial taxes, this change sets the personal exemption limit for imported alcohol from other provinces for up to one case of wine, four bottles of spirits, and a combined total of six dozen beer, cider and coolers.

These exemptions align with Ontario, Nova Scotia and the Yukon, which are among the provinces and territories with the highest personal exemptions in Canada.

Along with initiatives at the federal level, this change helps the province open domestic markets for BC wines. Federally, Bill C-311, a Private Members Bill, is currently before the Senate. The Bill aims to update the existing 84-year-old Importation of Intoxicating Liquors Act, and as such remove federal restrictions and enhance the movement of wine across provinces.

If Bill C-311 is approved, it would formally remove all federal taxes on alcohol, and give provinces more flexibility in determining taxation and movement of alcohol within Canada.

An IPSOS Reid poll released last week shows that both the BC NDP and party leader Adrian Dix are leading in public opinion.

The NDP have increased their position to a 19 point lead over the BC Liberals. Currently, the NDP has the support of 48% of decided voters, compared with 29% support for the BC Liberals. BC Conservatives currently hold 16% support and the Green party has 6%.

Concurrently, 50% of British Columbians approve of Mr. Dix's performance, while Premier Christy Clark's approval rating is 33%.

Municipalities in the Fraser Valley are meeting this week to discuss regional district concerns. On June 22, 2012, Mayors from Abbotsford, Langley City, Langley Township, Mission, and Chilliwack will meet to discuss concerns within the Fraser Valley Regional District (FVRD).

These discussions will explore whether FVRD member municipalities will remain within the regional district, or form new a new one.

This weekly report produced for the BC Chamber of Commerce by Fleishman-Hillard.  While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information included in this publication as of the date of issue, events and government policies are subject to frequent change.  Therefore, the BC Chamber of Commerce and Fleishman-Hillard cannot assume any responsibility for actions taken solely or principally on the basis on the information contained herein.