St. Kitts and Nevis extends fuel and shipping relief measures through September
Key Points(5)
- Kitts and Nevis has extended its temporary relief programme aimed at easing the impact of rising fuel and shipping costs on households and businesses through Sept.
- Cabinet Secretary Dr.
- Natta announced the extension during the July 28 Post-Cabinet Briefing, saying the move reflects the government’s continued commitment to protecting residents and businesses from the rising cost of living.
- The relief measures were first introduced earlier this year in response to increased international fuel prices and higher shipping costs linked to geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and disruptions to global supply chains.
- Under the programme, Cabinet approved temporary fiscal measures from April 30 through July 31, 2026, to reduce the cost of imported goods and help ease inflationary pressures across the Federation.
The Government of St. Kitts and Nevis has extended its temporary relief program aimed at easing the impact of rising fuel and shipping costs on households and businesses through Sept. 30, 2026.
Cabinet Secretary Dr. Marcus L. Natta announced the extension during the July 28 Post-Cabinet Briefing, saying the move reflects the government’s continued commitment to protecting residents and businesses from the rising cost of living.
The relief measures were first introduced earlier this year in response to increased international fuel prices and higher shipping costs linked to geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and disruptions to global supply chains.
Under the program, Cabinet approved temporary fiscal measures from April 30 through July 31, 2026, to reduce the cost of imported goods and help ease inflationary pressures across the Federation.
Following recommendations from the Ministry of Finance, Cabinet has now approved an extension of the measures from Aug. 1 to Sept. 30, 2026, under the same terms and conditions.
The extension includes:
- A 50% reduction in excise tax on eligible gasoline.
- A 50% reduction in customs service charges on gasoline.
- The exclusion of shipper surcharges from customs tax and duty calculations.
Officials said continued uncertainty in international fuel markets and shipping costs has contributed to ongoing pressure on consumers and businesses, prompting the government to continue the temporary support.
The measures are expected to provide targeted assistance, support economic activity and help reduce the impact of higher transportation and import costs on the domestic economy.
The government said it will continue monitoring global economic conditions and will take further action as necessary to safeguard the well-being of the people of St. Kitts and Nevis.
