This was revealed by Senator Nigel Carty, during his post Cabinet Briefing on Wednesday 27th October, at Government Headquarters, Basseterre.
According to reports reaching miyvue.com, the decision was made on Monday 26th October, during the weekly Cabinet meeting, when the Cabinet of Ministers gave the approval for the complete removal of import duty on 20 of the 27 items, in the Basket of Goods that was introduced in 2008. In addition, the duty payable on several other items was reduced as part of the new measure.
Included in the list of items to be affected are Tuna (canned); Sardine (canned); Skipjack and Bonito (canned); Sardinella, Brislings/Sprats (canned); Salmon (canned); Herrings (canned); Mackerel (canned); Chicken; Cheese; Canned Sausages; Corn Beef; Salt Fish/Herrings (Fresh); Mackerel (fresh); Salmon (Fresh); Ham (smoked, chilled, frozen); Baby Beverages (Juices); Pig Tails, Ears and Snout; Exercise books; Insecticides and rodenticides.
The import duty on Pasta, Margarine/Shortening/Lard and Vegetable Oil has also been reduced from 25% to 10% and Tomato Ketchup from 20% to 5%.
The import duty on Eggs has been reduced from 40 percent to 20 percent and mosquito coils from 25% to 5%.
These will come into effect with the impending implementation of the Value-Added Tax which will see the abolition of the 22.5% Consumption Tax and the implementation of a VAT at 17%. However, since September Government has reduced the Consumption Tax from 22.5% to 17%.
The Value Added Tax, VAT will be implemented on Monday, 1st November.