The easiest policy win in Ottawa might just be hiding in plain sight

Fixing the cannabis excise stamp is a simple, tangible step toward reducing interprovincial trade barriers.

Cannabis producers face an artificial fragmentation that makes it harder, slower, and more expensive to move products across our own country, writes Orville Bovenschen.Photograph courtesy of Wikimedia Commons

Opinion

BY ORVILLE BOVENSCHEN

October 30, 2025

When Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne tables the federal budget on Nov. 4, it will arrive at a pivotal moment for one of Canada’s fastest-growing industries. Cannabis is no longer a startup experiment—it is a significant economic engine.

To keep reading, subscribe and become a political insider.

Only $7.76 a week for an annual subscription.

Enjoy unlimited website access and the digital newspaper.

Cancel anytime.

Already a Subscriber?

Get Mondays: Environment Newsletter

From climate change to natural resources, dive into environmental legislation, policy, and advocacy.

By entering your email address you consent to receive email from The Hill Times containing news, analysis, updates and offers. You may unsubscribe at any time. See our privacy policy