A recent survey by the B.C. Chamber of Commerce has revealed that 63 per cent of businesses do not feel prepared for the transition back to the Provincial Sales Tax (PST) on April 1, 2013.
“There are many PST resources now available that B.C. businesses need to avail themselves of and be made aware of,” said John Winter, president of the B.C. chamber.
“Many new businesses in B.C. have never collected the PST, and need to be brought up to speed so that consumers are not negatively impacted at the cash register come April.”
In total, 970 businesses across the province took part in the PST business survey. Of those, 62 per cent were not aware of the changes that will be made to the PST, and 73 per cent did not feel they had received adequate information.
Through the depth and breadth of the its network, the B.C. Chamber was able to reach businesses of all sizes, sectors and regions of the province.
“There is a tremendous opportunity for chambers of commerce to work cooperatively with the provincial government to make sure this knowledge gap is filled,” said Winter.
“Together, we can ensure that the coming transition is a smooth one.”
For more information on the transition back to the PST, businesses are encouraged to contact their local chamber, the B.C. chamber website, or visit the provincial government PST in B.C. and webinar websites.
The PST is being re-implemented on April 1, 2013, with all permanent exemptions.
