Government unveiled a wide Christmas relief package to ease cost-of-living pressures during the busy holiday season. Moreover, officials said the plan aims to help families stretch their budgets while also supporting local businesses.

The package includes several major benefits. First, the Antigua and Barbuda Sales Tax (ABST) will drop from 17 percent to 7 percent on December 19, 20 and 21. Director General of Communications Maurice Merchant said the three-day reduction should boost both retail activity and consumer spending during a crucial shopping period.

Additionally, the popular Christmas Barrel Initiative will return from December 1 to January 15. Families can import personal goods at a much lower cost, paying only a US$10 processing fee and a 10 percent Revenue Recovery Charge on eligible items. Many households rely on this initiative each year, so its reinstatement provides timely support.

Furthermore, the government will waive all duties and taxes on hams, turkeys and whole chickens imported between November 25 and December 25. This waiver covers customs duties, import duties and ABST. Merchant explained that the goal is to reduce the price of traditional holiday foods, especially for low- and middle-income families preparing Christmas meals.

“These measures will help families, particularly low- and middle-income households, stretch their budgets further during the holidays,” Merchant said during the post-Cabinet briefing.

In addition, the package fits into the government’s wider plan to manage inflation and reduce food costs. Recently, officials expanded the list of essential items receiving zero-rated tax treatment under the Common External Tariff. They also confirmed that public-sector employees will receive their December salaries before the ABST reduction weekend, giving them more flexibility with seasonal spending.

Overall, Cabinet expects the combined measures to stimulate economic activity, support small businesses and ease financial pressures across the nation. As the holiday season approaches, government officials believe the Christmas relief package will help households enjoy the period with less financial strain.

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