Customs Comptroller urges stronger tax collection.
The Customs and Excise Division has seen an increase in revenue collection, which is sustained and positive news compared to the decrease experienced during the COVID-19 pandemic.
However, Comptroller of Customs Raju Boddu believes that revenue collection can be further improved by placing a limit on exemptions.
He advises the government to reconsider the number of tax exemptions offered to investors, as excessive exemptions hinder revenue collection.
Boddu suggests that a conscious decision must be made to limit exemptions, allowing for investors to receive three waivers but pay the ABST.
He believes this will make a significant difference in revenue collection and provide adequate funding for the government’s social and economic policies. Boddu emphasizes that while investments are important, investors should pay their fair share of taxes to support revenue collection.
He recommends that policy makers consider a flat rate if investors do not pay all. The Cabinet recently invited two IT experts who proposed to help the government find sectors that could yield 10 to 12% of additional revenue, and decreasing tax exemptions could make a difference.
Additionally, Boddu notes that Antigua and Barbuda is making significant progress in trade facilitation, and the measures put in place by the Customs and Excise Division to facilitate the process are functional and evident, including the ASYCUDA system.
This story was first published by Antigua News on : antigua.news/2023/11/15/customs-comptroller-urges-stronger-tax-collection. © 2023 Antigua News. Republication without permission is not allowed.
About the author
The Editorial Staff refers to all reporters employed by Antigua.news. When an article is not an original creation of Antigua.news—such as when it is based on a press release, other media articles, letters to the editor, or court decisions—one of our staff members is responsible for overseeing its publication.
Read our editorial standards and corrections policy. Spotted an error? Contact the newsroom.
More from Antigua and Barbuda
View section
Freeland Challenges Qualifier Schedule as College Commitments Complicate Team Selection
Basketball president says the timing of another qualifying round created difficulties for overseas players and added financial pressure
By Shermain Bique-Charles
School League Referee Calls for Investigation Into Alleged Verbal Abuse by Grammar School Coach
Devon Ollivere is seeking a public apology and safeguards for match officials following an alleged confrontation with Chesley Browne at Radio Range Football Field.
By Editorial Staff
Janica Adams Earns Special Recognition at Regional Tourism Youth Congress
Antigua and Barbuda’s Junior Minister of Tourism impressed with a creative destination pitch highlighting culture, adventure and bun and cheese ice cream.
By Shermain Bique-Charles
Dr Benjamin Calls for Community-Based Mental Health Care to Replace Clarevue Model
The consultant psychiatrist says meaningful reform must include housing, family support and direct involvement from people living with mental health conditions
By Shermain Bique-Charles
Comments (3)
Dion Pelle November 15, 2023, 9:46 PM
Frank November 22, 2023, 6:53 PM
Dion Pelle November 15, 2023, 9:58 PM