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by pltm
(PLTM) - Shaina Smith, the Interim Chairman of the BVI Chamber of Commerce and Hotel Association (BVICCHA), said that the Chamber will be advocating for things such as lowered freight charges and duty calculation, as a means of further stimulating the economic development of the Territory, and improve cost of living for residents.
In an October 1 announcement, Smith mentioned a number of undertakings in the pipeline, geared at boosting business success in the BVI. She said that the list of areas reflects the advocacy position the Chamber will be taking on regarding economic development matters.
According to the interim Chair, the areas that will be heavily lobbied by the BVICCHA were curated over the last six months, and form part of its advocacy agenda.
At the top of the agenda is a push to see cheaper shipping prices for goods arriving in the BVI. In noting this, Smith linked the increasing cost of doing business with high freight charges, and noted that the Chamber will be advocating for lower prices in this area.
Another factor of the import cost is the payment of duties, and this area will also be highlighted by the BVICCHA.
In disclosing the plans for getting attention placed on the duty charges, the interim Chair announced that the Chamber will “look at new fees and calculation to import duty”. This, she noted, will keep the price of goods and services down.
BVICCHA is also considering reform to the Hotel Aid government incentive. Through the Hotel Aid benefit, businesses are permited to import eligible items for the construction, equipping, extension or renovation of a hotel property, free of import duties.
As part of its advocacy mandate, the Chamber announced that it intends to push for reform to Hotel Aid and pioneer status legislation.
Additionally, Smith said that they will also be calling for incentives for emerging industries.
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