Update July 20, 2022:
We have compiled your questions along with our own and sent them to the BC Liquor Distribution Branch in advance of the provincial sector consultation happening today. Click the button below to see the questions.
Original July 15, 2022:
The BC government’s plan to introduce direct cannabis sales was a hot topic at the BC Cannabis Summit in April. Last week, BC released more information about its plan to roll out the policy this summer. BC originally announced its intention to launch a direct cannabis sales program in September 2020 to allow craft farmers and processors to sell cannabis directly to retailers.
In addition to bypassing the costly provincial distribution process, this approach presented an opportunity for farmers and retailers to make their own arrangements and increase consumer access to fresh, locally grown cannabis.
Despite the fact that the direct sales program would not require products to be handled by BC’s central cannabis distribution system, provincial officials were proposing to maintain their 15% handling fee.
At the Summit, delegates voted to support a policy resolution calling on the BC government to eliminate the proposed 15% handling fee for cannabis sales that bypass the BC warehouse. Delegates also wanted the provincial government to collaborate with BCCFC, the Retail Cannabis Council of BC, and the Kootenay Cannabis Development Council to build the sector’s capacity to fully implement a direct sales policy over the coming year.
Unfortunately, looking at the proposals released this week, the provincial government appears to have ignored the sector’s unanimous voice to eliminate their unjustified 15% handling fee. Instead, this approach will keep cannabis prices high for consumers and undermine the sustainability of BC retailers, craft farmers and processors. They also present an unfair advantage for BC government cannabis stores that are essentially collecting the 15% fee for themselves.
BC officials have asked for questions in advance of a sector consultation next week. BCCFC is reviewing the proposal with our partners and preparing a list. Click the buttons below to see BC’s proposed policy and provide your feedback to us. What are your questions?
Watch for an invitation to attend a special virtual meeting with licensed farmers, processors and retailers next week. BCCFC is also organizing farmer’s roundtable meetings in the Fraser Valley and Prince George next month.