In October 2018, Canada became the first G7 country to legalize cannabis for recreational use. This historic move has been met with both praise and criticism as people strive to understand its implications. The new legislation creates a framework for regulation of the production, distribution, sale and possession of cannabis across Canada. With this decision, Canada joins Uruguay as one of only two countries in the world with legally regulated recreational cannabis markets. The Cannabis Act, introduced in the Senate on November 28th 2017, was ultimately passed by the House of Commons on June 7th 2018.
The legalization of cannabis in Canada has created a unique opportunity to generate revenue from the sale and taxation of the previously illicit substance. With the increasing demand for quality cannabis, the Canadian government is looking to capitalize on this emerging industry. Cannabis sales create a new form of economic growth while providing valuable resources to communities across the country. Aside from creating jobs, cannabis sales also offer governments additional funds that can be used to fund education, healthcare, law enforcement and other important initiatives.
On January 17th 2023 the Kamloops, with council’s approval reduced the annual business license fee for Kamloops based cannabis retailers from $5,000 per year to $196.40 per year. (source).
“Accordingly, with Council’s approval, we’ve adjusted the annual business licence fee and brought it into alignment with what is charged for liquor stores. It’s also in alignment with what other municipalities charge for cannabis stores.”
Information on operating a retail cannabis operation in Kamloops can be found here: https://www.kamloops.ca/business-development/business-licensing/cannabis-retail-sales.
According to Google Business Manager (MAPS) there are currently 19 Cannabis retailers operating in Kamloops.
