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From our correspondent
Roseau, Dominica – November 11 2026 — Importers and consumers in Dominica are set to experience changes in the cost of bringing goods into the country following parliamentary approval of amendments to the Value Added Tax and Excise Tax Acts. The legislative adjustments abolish the previous method of applying taxes to amounts that already include other taxes, introducing a revised calculation system that became effective on October 1, 2026. The measure was initially outlined in the Government’s 2026/2027 National Budget.
Finance Minister Dr. Irving McIntyre explained that under the revised framework, both VAT and Excise Tax on imported commodities will be determined using their Cost, Insurance and Freight (CIF) value. The adjustment is intended to eliminate the additional tax burden created by the previous calculation method, while making the importation process more straightforward. Businesses and individuals importing high-value commodities, particularly motor vehicles, are expected to benefit from reduced upfront costs and improved cash-flow management.
Another significant provision of the amended legislation removes Excise Tax from imported garbage collection trucks. The Government is seeking to make it more financially attractive for private investors and operators to enter the waste collection industry by reducing the initial expense associated with acquiring the necessary vehicles and equipment.
Dr. McIntyre indicated that the initiative is intended to encourage private companies and individuals to work alongside the Dominica Solid Waste Corporation in addressing the country’s waste disposal and collection needs. Although Government will continue efforts to expand its own fleet of garbage trucks, greater participation by private operators is expected to provide additional capacity and strengthen the delivery of waste management services.
Interested individuals and businesses are being encouraged to submit proposals in the coming months outlining how they could contribute to the provision of garbage collection services. The tax amendments form part of the administration’s wider fiscal measures aimed at easing the cost of importing goods, creating opportunities for private sector participation and improving the efficiency of essential public services.
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