Abolition of the QST: discover the products affected

Abolition of the QST: discover the products affected

Since July 15th, 2026, the Quebec government has permanently abolished the QST (Quebec Sales Tax) on several food and everyday hygiene products to reduce the cost of living. This measure applies in grocery stores, convenience stores, and pharmacies.

Products now exempt from the QST:

• Ready-to-eat fruits and vegetables (fruit salads, pre-cut vegetable platters, etc.).
• Greek bars, granola products, and trail mixes.
• Salted or seasoned nuts, peanuts, and seeds.
• Toilet paper.
• Paper tissues.
• Ice cream, frozen yogurt, sorbet, and other frozen desserts sold in individual portions (less than 500 g or 500 ml).
• Creamy desserts (gelatin, mousse, whipped desserts, etc.) sold in individual portions (less than 425 g).
• Bakery products sold individually or in small quantities (fewer than six units), including:
• doughnuts;
• cookies;
• glazed or filled croissants;
• cakes;
• muffins;
• pastries;
• tarts and pies.

The Quebec Sales Tax (QST) continues to apply to several other products, including soft drinks, potato chips, candy, prepared meals, and many other food items that remain taxable.

According to the government, this measure represents a revenue loss of approximately $100 million per year and could allow a Quebec family to save an average of $45 to $50 per year.