The People’s National Party (PNP) is calling on the Government to extend the period of relief from customs duties and general consumption tax (GCT) for goods imported for recovery efforts following Hurricane Beryl.
The party acknowledges the temporary waiver granted by the governing party but believes the current timeframe is insufficient to address the extensive damage caused by the hurricane.
According to the PNP, the delayed announcement of this one-month reprieve has already impacted the ability of affected individuals and businesses to mobilize support and arrange logistics effectively.
The party says clear and timely communication of guidelines on how and where to apply for this relief is critical to ensure that all eligible parties can benefit from the exemption.
“We urge the Government to extend the relief period until November 30, 2024, the end of the hurricane season. This extension would provide adequate time for the importation and distribution of essential recovery supplies, facilitating a more robust and sustained recovery effort,” said the party in a release.
“It would be unjust for the State to seek revenue from those who have already suffered significant losses due to Hurricane Beryl. Moreover, facilitating the swift resumption of economic activities through this relief would, in turn, support the generation of tax revenues,” they added.
Acknowledging the likelihood of further adverse weather conditions during the remainder of the hurricane season, the PNP added that it would be prudent to consider additional relief measures that are comprehensive and accessible to all.
