St. Kitts to give temporary tax relief on school supplies, AC units

The Government of St. Kitts and Nevis has unveiled the remaining dates for its 2024 Discounted VAT Rate Days, which are strategically timed for the Back-to-School and Christmas shopping seasons. In response to rising global temperatures, concessions have also been introduced for air-cooling devices.

The Discounted VAT Rate Days initiative aims to provide financial relief to citizens and stimulate economic activity amid ongoing global inflation. The designated dates for the remainder of 2024 are as follows:

  • Back-to-School Discounted VAT Rate Days:
    • Friday, August 16
    • Saturday, August 17 (Note: Vehicle sales are excluded on these dates.)
  • Christmas Discounted VAT Rate Days:
    • Friday, December 13
    • Saturday, December 21 (Note: Vehicle sales are included on these dates.)

Additionally, from July 1, 2024, to September 30, 2024, there will be a period of temporary tax relief on school supplies. During this time, no taxes will be charged on eligible items, including cloth for school uniforms, textbooks, and calculators. Exemptions from Import Duty, Value Added Tax (VAT), and Customs Service Charge (CSC) will apply to a wide range of school supplies.

Prime Minister of St. Kitts and Nevis Dr. Terrance Drew emphasized that this initiative is designed to support families and students by making essential school supplies more affordable.

In addition to these measures, the Federal Cabinet of Ministers has approved a temporary concession on air-cooling devices, effective from July 1, 2024, to September 30, 2024. During this period, no taxes will be charged on eligible air-cooling devices. Prime Minister Drew underscored the health risks posed by extreme heat, particularly for the elderly and young children.

- Advertisement -

“High temperatures in our homes, schools, and workplaces are a serious health concern,” said Prime Minister Drew. “Staying cool and hydrated is crucial during these summer months, and we believe these concessions will help our people cope better.”

The tax relief on air-cooling devices includes:

  1. Air conditioning units (including mobile) with a BTU strength of 24,000 or less
  2. Fans (including ceiling, standing, wall-mounted, table, etc.)
  3. Evaporative coolers

This exemption applies to all commercial and non-commercial importers, allowing widespread benefit from the initiative. However, it does not cover parts associated with these devices.

The Government is also encouraging the purchase of energy-efficient air-cooling devices and advises unplugging them after use, where possible, to reduce energy consumption and avoid higher bills.

These measures reflect the Government’s commitment to supporting its citizens through financial relief and health initiatives, addressing both economic and environmental challenges.

More Stories

Guyana Government to assist sugar workers

Guyana in diplomatic talks with US over Cuban medical missions sanctions

The Government of Guyana is engaged in diplomatic discussions with the United States to address concerns over the expansion of US restrictions on Cuba’s...
Nearly six thousand people killed Haiti in 2024

IACHR expresses concern over worsening security crisis in Haiti

The Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR) has voiced grave concerns over the escalating security crisis in Haiti, citing a surge in extreme violence...
Owen James

Jamaican media mourns the passing of veteran journalist Owen James

The Press Association of Jamaica (PAJ) has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of veteran journalist Owen James, hailing him as a trailblazer in...
Turks and Caicos

US warns Americans not to travel with firearms or ammo to Turks and Caicos

The U.S. Department of State has issued a forceful warning to American travelers, urging them to leave all firearms and ammunition at home when...
Barbados to host 69th CARPHA

Barbados to host 69th CARPHA Health Research Conference focused on mental health

Barbados will host the 69th Annual Health Research Conference of the Trinidad-based Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) from May 7 to 9, with a...
Stuart Young

Stuart Young to be sworn in as Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago on March 17

Energy Minister Stuart Young is set to be sworn in as Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago on March 17, following Dr. Keith Rowley’s...
Issa Trust Foundation

Issa Trust Foundation expands neonatal training in Jamaica

From February 28 to March 14, 2025, the Issa Trust Foundation spearheaded a critical initiative to enhance neonatal care in Jamaica by providing specialized...
eGov Technology Showcase

Jamaica advances digital transformation at eGov Technology Showcase

The future of Jamaica’s digital transformation took center stage at yesterday’s eGov Jamaica Limited GOJ Digital Government Technology Showcase at the Jamaica Pegasus. The event,...
Jamaica tufton

Jamaica’s health minister: No evidence of forced labor among Cuban medical workers

Jamaica's Health and Wellness Minister Dr. Christopher Tufton has dismissed concerns that Cuban medical professionals working in Jamaica are victims of forced labor, reaffirming...
imf

IMF highlights St. Lucia’s strong economic performance

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has commended St. Lucia’s economic recovery, citing strong growth in tourism, construction, and manufacturing. In its 2024 Article IV consultation,...

Latest Articles

Skip to content