Businesses throughout British Columbia will be better able to manage costs as the Province pauses the planned expansion of the Provincial Sales Tax (PST) to professional services. 

In response to new and ongoing international trade disruptions and the economic uncertainty they are creating, government intends to delay the PST expansion to professional services that had been 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 is estimated at approximately $260 million in 2026-27. 

“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.”

The Province will continue to take action to ensure the right conditions are in place for businesses to succeed and for people to access the services they rely on.

Support for businesses

British Columbia is one of the lowest taxed provinces in the country.

Pausing the PST expansion is one of several actions the Province has taken through the taxation system to help businesses reduce costs, attract investment and grow the economy.