The popular Dollar Barrel initiative along with the reduction in the Antigua and Barbuda Sales Tax (ABST) are returning in time for the Christmas holiday period as the Cabinet has approved a series of measures designed to ease the cost of living, enhance household purchasing power and support local businesses during the season.
Cabinet spokesman, Director of Communications, Maurice Merchant said the relief package includes the following:
- A reinstated Christmas Barrel Initiative, which will run from 1 December 2025 to 15 January 2026.
- A modest US $10.00 processing fee plus a Revenue Recovery Charge (RRC) of 10% on the value of items imported under the scheme — allowing households to access essential items, gifts, and holiday goods at significantly reduced cost.
- A temporary reduction of the Antigua and Barbuda Sales Tax (ABST) to 7% from Friday 19 December to Sunday 21 December 2025, encouraging retail activity and holiday shopping.
- A waiver of duties and taxes (customs duties, import duty, ABST, and other applicable charges) on the importation of hams, turkeys, and whole chicken between 25 November and 25 December 2025, aimed at lowering the price of festive foods and supporting households over the Yuletide period.
According to Merchant, by lowering costs on staple and festive items, the measures help families — particularly low- and middle-income households — stretch their budgets further during the holidays, at a time when expenses typically rise.
“The temporary ABST reduction and Christmas Barrel initiative are expected to boost retail activity, increase consumer spending, and benefit small and medium-sized businesses across the islands.
“In the face of rising global food and import costs, the waiver on poultry and holiday imports, combined with broader recent measures to zero-rate essential food imports, is part of the government’s commitment to help households manage inflationary pressures,” Merchant indicated.
He noted that the holiday season is typically a peak period for consumer spending. These relief measures are expected to stimulate demand, support retail and trade sectors, and help sustain incomes for workers in commerce, distribution, and hospitality.
“These measures reflect government’s ongoing commitment to support Antiguans and Barbudans, especially at times when they need it most. It is not just about immediate relief, but also about sustaining the lifeblood of commerce, reinforcing local supply chains, and ensuring that the benefits of growth touch the wider population.
“The Government of Antigua and Barbuda remains committed to protecting the welfare of its citizens, promoting equitable access to essential goods, and supporting economic activity. This Yuletide relief package is designed to make the holiday period more affordable and joyous for households, while also strengthening local businesses,” the communications director observed.
