UPP Pledges to End Political Duty-Free Privileges

Opposition Leader Jamale Pringle says a United Progressive Party government will abolish all politically-driven duty-free vehicle concessions if elected. Under the proposed reform, duty-free waivers would no longer be granted based on political loyalty or personal favour.

The UPP’s alternative would instead centre on clean energy and environmental management.

Pringle announced during the budget debate on Monday that a UPP administration would make duty-free concessions available exclusively for New Energy Vehicles—including electric and hybrid cars.

“This removes the political bias practiced by the Gaston Browne Administration. Everyone will benefit, no matter your political affiliation,” Pringle said.

The shift, he argued, would produce multiple national benefits, including cleaner communities as imports of old, end-of-life vehicles decline, and lower fuel consumption at the household and national levels.

He said it will also reduce emissions, supporting climate resilience goals and a fair concession system that no party can manipulate for political gain.

Pringle insisted the reform would restore fairness while reducing roadside pollution and unsightly scrap heaps.

According to the Opposition Leader, derelict vehicles contribute not only to visual pollution but also to environmental hazards, as they leak oil, chemicals, and metal contaminants into the soil and surrounding areas. He argued that “political duty-free” has fueled this problem for over a decade.

He framed the UPP’s plan as a way to break the cycle of “politics first, public interest second.”

“This cleans up the environment. This reduces the national fuel bill. Everyone will benefit, no matter your political affiliation,” Pringle said.