Nova Scotia will drop HST to 14%, Houston says amid early election speculation – Halifax [Video]

Nova Scotia Premier Tim Houston has announced a one per cent cut to the HST  next year.

The provincial part of the HST will drop to nine per cent from 10, meaning Nova Scotians will be paying a combined HST of 14 per cent.

“Lowering the HST will make things more affordable for all Nova Scotians, everybody who purchases something. So that’s why we’re taking this step,” Houston told reporters during a Wednesday news conference.

“We’re mindful of the revenue impacts and the need to provide services, but we know that the lower HST is a solution for Nova Scotians.”

The province confirmed it has given notice to the federal government about the impending change, but the move still requires legislation. Houston said the tax cut would take effect April 1, 2025.

Under a new piece of Nova Scotia’s Elections Act, the next provincial election is slated for July 15, 2025, but the HST announcement comes …