More than 8 in 10 Canadians say food should not be taxed
Canadians are struggling with rising living costs while local restaurants work to recover from years of disruption. Unlike groceries, restaurant meals are taxed under the GST/HST, making them more expensive for consumers and adding pressure on foodservice businesses.
Removing the GST/HST from restaurant meals would ease costs for families and support an industry that employs over a million Canadians.
We urge the federal government to modernize its tax policy and exempt all food, including restaurant meals, from GST/HST to protect jobs and strengthen communities.
The GST/HST holiday showed us that removing the tax from restaurant meals stimulates the economy and protects jobs.
Jobs Created in the Restaurants and Accomodation Industry
24,000 foodservice jobs created during the tax holiday—more than the 12 previous months combined 1
Foodservice sales increased 8.3% in January 2
Bankruptcies down 50% year-over-year 3
84% of Canadians say food should not be taxed, no matter where it is purchased
Labour Force Survey, Statistics Canada
Monthly Survey of Food Services and Drinking Places, Statistics Canada
For many Canadians, buying a prepared meal—over their lunch break, while picking up the kids from practice, or because they can't cook at home—is a necessity, not a luxury.
Taxing restaurant meals isn't just outdated, it's unfair.
Restaurants Canada is leading the push to remove the GST/HST on restaurant meals. This isn’t about luxuries. It’s about affordability, fairness, and supporting local restaurants that help our communities thrive.
Spread the word and Take Action! Download a graphic to share and encourage the support of your network!
