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Basseterre, Saint Kitts, April 14, 2026 — Prime Minister the Honourable Dr. Terrance Drew has issued a strong and timely appeal to the business community in Saint Kitts and Nevis, urging that recent government-led cost reduction measures be reflected in lower prices for consumers.
This appeal follows a suite of impactful initiatives outlined during the Prime Minister’s National Address, including reductions in fuel taxes, decreased Customs Service Charges on gasoline, the removal of taxes and duties on alternative energy equipment, and the exclusion of shipping surcharges from customs valuations. Collectively valued in the millions of dollars, these measures are intended to lower operational costs across multiple sectors while delivering meaningful financial relief to households.
Emphasising the shared responsibility required to achieve these outcomes, Dr. Drew noted that the effectiveness of the Government’s interventions depends significantly on fair and responsible business practices. He stated, “To our businesses: we ask not for charity but for fairness. When Government reduces taxes, let those savings reach the people at the counter. Because when our people can breathe, our economy grows—and that benefits everyone.”
These policy actions, the Prime Minister explained, are deliberately structured to address the rising cost of living. Lower fuel expenses, reduced import-related charges, and increased support for energy independence have created conditions for reduced business overheads—an advantage that, he stressed, should be passed directly on to consumers.
Reaffirming the Government’s commitment to ongoing economic oversight, Dr. Drew indicated that further action will be taken where necessary. At the same time, he underscored the importance of partnership, encouraging businesses to contribute to national development by promoting affordability, transparency, and equitable pricing practices.
The Government of Saint Kitts and Nevis remains resolute in its efforts to ease financial pressures on citizens while fostering a resilient and inclusive economy, and continues to call on all stakeholders to ensure that the benefits of these significant measures are broadly realised across the Federation.
Source: PMO
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