A private system of retailing cannabis would open up “unprecedented business opportunities” and generate more revenue for Alberta’s government than a publicly owned monopoly, according to a local business group.
A private model based on the province’s liquor system – which is overseen by the Alberta Gaming and Liquor Commission (AGLC) – avoids the expense of creating and maintaining a public retail system, according to a report by the Edmonton Chamber of Commerce.
- Which system is more efficient, public or private?
- Which system generates more profit per liter?
For each bottle of liquor sold, without a single government-owned retail store, Alberta realizes 26% more revenue than Ontario does, the chamber contended.
A battle is being waged in Canada’s provinces over who should sell recreational marijuana – civil servants or private citizens – and so far, civil servants are coming out on top.
Alberta and Manitoba’s decision to allow private retail represents a sharp turn from plans by Ontario and New Brunswick to sell recreational marijuana through government-owned stores.
Quebec also is expected to go with a government-run approach.
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