The federal government is hoping the millions of Canadians will kick their tobacco habits with an increase in the excise tax.
Effective today, Canadian smokers, which includes 20 per cent of this province’s population, will notice an extra $5.50 tacked on to the price of a carton of cigarettes.
Those who choose to vape will also be hit in the pocketbook as the levy on vaping products will go up by 12 per cent this July.
Ottawa revealed the increases during yesterday’s budget, noting the tax hikes are expected to bring in nearly $1.7 billion in additional revenue over the next five years.