IRD Confirms August VAT Rate Days
BASSETERRE — The Inland Revenue Department has confirmed the full schedule of Discounted Value Added Tax Rate Days for 2026, offering shoppers temporary relief with a reduced rate of 5% instead of the standard 17%.
The summer and back-to-school rate days are set for Friday, Aug. 28, and Saturday, Aug. 29. Vehicles are excluded from the discount during this period. Shoppers are encouraged to take advantage of the lower rate on a wide range of goods as families prepare for the new school year.
Earlier in the year, the government also designated Friday, April 17, as the Easter discounted rate day, with vehicles excluded. For the Christmas period, the reduced rate will apply on Friday, Dec. 11, and Saturday, Dec. 19, and vehicles will be included on those dates.
Officials said the initiatives are intended to ease the financial burden on households, boost consumer spending and support local retailers during key seasonal periods. Retailers have been reminded to update their point-of-sale systems in advance and clearly communicate the reduced rate to customers.
The Inland Revenue Department advised the public to plan purchases carefully and keep proper records to benefit fully from the rate days.
Further information is available at www.ird.gov.kn or by contacting the department at sknhelpdesk@ird.gov.kn or (869) 465-8485.
