Bahamas announces new Hurricane Dorian tax relief policy

NASSAU, Bahamas, CMC  – Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis has announced a new tax relief policy for Abaco, the Cays, and Grand Bahama, until June 2020, as part of the Government’s effort to stimulate the economies of areas affected by Hurricane Dorian.

Minnis made the announcement at a Town Hall Meeting on Wednesday.

The new VAT (Value Added Tax) Relief Policy means that individuals and businesses will be exempt from the payment of VAT on a range of items, including unprepared food of all types, water, fruit and vegetable juice, clothes, manufacturing equipment, mosquito netting, plumbing fixtures and materials, office supplies and equipment, tents, and air-conditioning units.

Fuel for generators in areas still without electricity will also be VAT-free.

Minnis said the details and start date will be announced shortly. 

He also announced plans to establish The Bahamas National Recovery and Reconstruction Trust Fund, an independent non-political body to help fund home and building repairs. 

“We want your economy to get going as quickly as possible. We want to get you back into your homes as soon as possible,” Minnis said.

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