Dominica’s Parliament has approved the extension of VAT and import duty exemptions on 26 essential food items through July 31, 2026.
Dominica: Parliament has approved no VAT and no Import duties on twenty-six essential food items in Dominica. On Friday, April 11, 2026, the Government of Dominica announced that it has extended measures to ease the cost of living for the citizens of Dominica with the extension of VAT relief on some essential goods in the country.
This motion was approved by members of Parliament as they convened for the Sixth Meeting of the Third Session of the Eleventh Parliament earlier that day. Twenty-six food items have been approved for no VAT and no Import Duty exemptions, including essential goods such as flour, rice, milk, sugar and many more.
With this extension, VAT and import duties will be removed from a selected list of food items for an additional four months, ending on July 31, 2026.
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During his address at the House of Assembly, the Minister of Finance, Dr. Irving McIntyre, stated that these measures are part of the Government’s ongoing efforts to provide financial relief to different households amid the external economic pressures brought by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
Mr. Speaker, as a caring government, we continue to look out for the best interests of the people of Dominica. To avoid hardships on our people, we find ways other than through taxes to raise revenue and provide relief when required, he explained.
The Minister of Finance went on to urge the suppliers to cooperate with the Government by passing on these exemption measures to the consumers.
Also present at the meeting, Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit explained the significance of this extension, noting that it will play an important part in supporting families with their daily needs.
By removing these taxes on essential goods, we are easing the cost of living, protecting household incomes and ensuring that basic necessities remain within reach.
He further added, “This is what responsible governance requires. This is what caring, compassionate and competent leadership demands. And this is what the people of this country deserve.”
The Government of Dominica has shared the full list of the essential goods on its official Facebook page, informing the consumers and suppliers of these changes.