“No Increase in Customs Charges!” – Prime Minister Drew Reaffirms

Basseterre, St. Kitts, July 23, 2025 (PMO) — In a clear statement during the July 22 Cabinet Wide Press Conference, Prime Minister Hon. Dr. Terrance Drew confirmed that there has been no increase in customs charges or new taxes imposed by the Government of St. Kitts and Nevis.

“There has been no increase with respect to the rates of customs charges. So whatever the rate is, that is the rate that should be paid,” Dr. Drew said in response to media questions regarding customs fees and concerns raised by the public.

The Prime Minister explained that while some individuals may feel that charges have increased, this perception may be linked to external factors such as increased freight costs, insurance, or tariff-related impacts on imported goods.

Senior Minister Hon. Dr. Denzil Douglas also chimed in to express, “The computation naturally would have changed… freight costs have increased, insurance would have increased, and naturally the VAT and the customs service charge, etc., which are paid, would be on a higher base level.”

Prime Minister Drew encouraged citizens to query charges if in doubt and called for greater public understanding and communication with customs officials.

“People have a right to query their charges… and persons should be shown how much they are paying and what methodology is used. This is a very serious question and should not be taken lightly.”

The government reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, fair trade practices, and supporting the cost-of-living challenges faced by residents, especially in light of global economic pressures.

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