The Province has paused its planned expansion of the Provincial Sales Tax (PST) to professional services amid economic uncertainty caused by ongoing international trade disruptions.
The PST expansion was scheduled to take effect on Oct. 1.
“There’s a time to stay the course, and there’s a time to adjust. This is a time to adjust,” said Premier David Eby.
“Delaying these changes until well after Trump’s disastrous trade war is over will give businesses some breathing room as they navigate tariffs and bans while pivoting to other markets.”
Savings for people, local governments and businesses are estimated at approximately $260 million in 2026-27, according to the Province.
“Businesses and communities need more flexibility at this time to be able to invest, adapt and grow,” said Josie Osborne, Minister of Finance.
“Pausing the PST expansion will protect jobs and help local governments that use professional services manage their costs of delivering infrastructure and community services.”
As a result, the PST exemption will be implemented on professional services businesses, including accounting, bookkeeping and architectural. It will also include geoscientists, engineering services, non-residential real estate commissions and services, and security and private investigation services.
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