Gov’t extends duty concession to mid-sized commercial vehicles used by farmers

The 20 per cent duty concession, which currently applies to pickup trucks used by farmers, will now be extended to include other mid-sized commercial vehicles typically utilised in farming.

Prime Minister Dr Andrew Holness made the announcement during his contribution to the 2025/2026 Budget Debate in the House of Representatives on Thursday.

He said that the Government will revise the General Consumption Tax (GCT) Act to redefine the eligible vehicles and include versatile options like panel vans and small trucks.

He noted that adding other types of vehicles will remove the barriers limiting farmers’ ability to efficiently transport perishable goods, equipment and livestock feed.

“It’s just the things we do that makes sense. If you look at it, a farmer can easily get a duty concession for a pickup that is essentially a luxury good, but what they would really need is a vehicle with more capacity to carry load, which is more practical,” he said.

Additionally, the Government will amend the age to permit the importation of light commercial vehicles from 10 to 15 years.

The Prime Minister said that registered marine fishers will be included in the 20 per cent motor-vehicle duty concession regime, joining fish farmers who have always benefited.

He informed that Minister of Finance and the Public Service, Favyal Williams, will announce the date that these adjustments will take effect.

- JIS News

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