KEEP RECEIPTS AND CALL CONSUMER AFFAIRS DEPARTMENT IF PRICES ARE COMPARATIVELY HIGH DURING VAT RELIEF HOLIDAY
Basseterre, St. Kitts, February 06, 2025 (SKNIS): Prices on goods and services in St. Kitts and Nevis should generally reflect reduced prices as a result of the six-month Value Added Tax (VAT) Relief Holiday implemented on January 01, 2025. A preliminary market assessment of four major retail outlets by the Department of Consumer Affairs last month showed that some prices surveyed were lower. However, there have also been a few cases where some companies have not adjusted prices downward.
It is a cause for concern at the Department of Consumer Affairs, according to Tricia Delaney, Communications Officer. Mrs. Delaney commented on the matter on Wednesday’s (February 05, 2025) edition of InFocus.
“In some cases, businesses have maintained the same total price but a lower VAT rate is on the receipt, which is deceptive and unfair to consumers,” Mrs. Delaney indicated.
In cases of such, consumers are strongly encouraged to compare prices from previous receipts and where there is a difference to highlight the matter to officials in store in a courteous and respectful manner. If there is no redress, then customers should seek out the Department of Consumer Affairs.
“What we find is that people don’t report cases. We will go online (social media) … and see people talking saying this is happening, but no one actually called in or came into the office and reported the cases,” stated Mrs. Delaney. “If you suspect something is wrong when you are out conducting business, if you feel you are being overcharged, if you feel like they are not charging the right VAT rate, we ask that you contact us.”
Persons can reach the Department of Consumer Affairs by visiting the department’s office at Bladen’s Commercial Development, calling 467-3350, or sending a direct message on social media.
Once cases are referred, officials will conduct an investigation and any violations discovered will be referred to the Cabinet for action.
-30-
