The implementation of the 2.5 percent Health and Citizen Security Levy, effective from August 2, 2023, has faced strong opposition from the United Workers Party (UWP), which forms the Opposition.
The new levy is applicable to various goods and services, excluding food items, medicines, select building materials, medical equipment, and security equipment.
Prime Minister Pierre introduced the health and security levy with the intent of generating additional revenue for the government.
This revenue is earmarked for funding law enforcement initiatives, public healthcare projects, bolstering national security measures and improving the accessibility of affordable healthcare services for the citizens of Saint Lucia.
Importantly, this levy’s implementation will not lead to any modifications in consumer prices for essential items, including food, certain building and security supplies, and medicine.
