Environmental Protection Levy Hike Put On Hold Pending Legal Changes

Tax Administration Jamaica says the government has not yet finished the legal steps needed to activate the planned rise in the Environmental Protection Levy.

The adjustment, which was due to begin on May 1, would move the EPL from 0.5 per cent to 0.85 per cent. In a statement on Monday, TAJ said the new rate cannot be applied until the required amendments are finalised.

The agency said the present EPL system will continue until those changes are completed and the government announces an official start date. Manufacturers and importers who need more details are being directed to the information hub on TAJ's website.

Finance Minister Fayval Williams had previously outlined the increase among the government's revenue measures, saying it was expected to bring in about $3.6 billion.