Illicit sales
Prior to legalization cannabis sales from illicit on-line companies was quite prevalent. Post-legalization the sale of non-regulated cannabis continues to be one of the most prevalent forms for illicit cannabis reaching consumers. Many consumers are led to believe that this is legal as some on-line sales companies will ask or provide a medical prescription for […]
Marketing & Promotional Activities
Despite having significant medicinal properties, having significantly lower rates of addiction, and having minimal costs to society, restrictions on marketing and promotions of cannabis is similar if not more severe than that of nicotine/tobacco. Alcohol which has little to no medicinal properties, is highly addictive, and has serious societal detriments (e.g., traffic fatalities, liver disease, […]
Edible Limits
Edible limits for regulated cannabis are restricted to 10mg of THC per SKU, while in contrast non-regulated products are 10 to 100X greater. Depending on the SKU (e.g., chocolate, gummies, and candy versus beverages) the mg of THC could vary to reflect common servings (i.e., most people may eat 5 pieces of chocolate while only […]
Regulatory Fees
The Canadian cannabis industry faces rising regulatory fees, with increases scheduled annually to match inflation. These fees cover various licenses for cultivation, processing, sales, security clearances, and import/export permits, affecting both small and large operators. While the fees are intended to offset the government’s costs for regulating the industry, some businesses struggle to pay, leading […]
Excise Tax
Excise taxes are levied by governments to help discourage the consumption of potentially harmful products like nicotine and alcohol or to address negative impacts on society as a result of their use. In contrast, cannabis is a medicine, and yet has excise taxes levied on it that are disproportionate to any of the above. NS […]
Economic Impact
Nova Scotia’s real GDP from agricultural industries has grown largely on rising cannabis production (this estimate includes illicit production). Although there are intermittent periods of faster growth and decline, real GDP from non-cannabis crops has grown slowly while real GDP from animal production has trended down.
Public Health & a Viable Industry
The legalization of cannabis has transformed both public health and the economy in Nova Scotia. With sales regulated through the Nova Scotia Liquor Commission, the focus remains on ensuring safe, controlled distribution and product quality. At the same time, debates over Indigenous rights to establish cannabis businesses highlight the challenge of balancing public health policies […]
