The Anguilla House of Assembly has approved a motion enabling a local gift shop to import chocolate production materials at reduced costs.
Josveek Huligar of Anguilla Sands and Salts in South Hill will not have to pay customs duty or excise tax on the specialist equipment for a year, saving him an estimated EC$7,422.19.
The exemption covers a dough proofer, bakery trolley, trays, bag printer, chocolate moulds, glass jars and mylar bags imported between 26 August this year to 25 August, 2025.
As well as handcrafted chocolate, in his shop Huligar sells Anguilla sea salt infused with different flavours, and Anguilla beach sand jewellery.
Presenting the motion on 17 December, Premier Ellis Webster described Huligar as “very innovative,” praising his creations for enhancing culinary experiences in Anguilla and internationally.
He recalled taking products from Huligar’s store as gifts during a visit to London last year, noting they were “a hit” and are also popular with tourists visiting the island.
Webster commended Anguillians for using their “God-given talent” and local resources to benefit the territory.
“Tourism is our main industry, and whatever we can do to to attract, to sell Anguilla… this is what we have to continue to do,” he added.
Made in Anguilla
Numerous members of the assembly rose to offer their support to the motion before it was passed unanimously.
Opposition member Shellya Rogers-Webster told members that she has seen Huligar build his business from the ground up.
“He’s always very, very open to trying new things, to adjusting to meet the needs of clients, and his business and his products are a welcome addition to Anguilla’s tourism product,” she said.
“So I wish him every success as he moves forward, and I think it’s very important for us to support small businesses who are investing in themselves and who are growing and expanding their business.”
Opposition member Kyle Hodge, who also rose in support of the motion, said Huligar is a role model to young people in Anguilla.
“In this niche market that has a lot of potential, it is very important that government finds ways in which to support these types of entrepreneurs,” he said.
Hodge expressed hope that manufacturers will continue to take pride in labelling their products as ‘Made in Anguilla’.
Capitalise on success
Tourism minister Haydn Hughes said manufacturing is is vital to Anguilla and highlighted ongoing efforts to establish a comprehensive manufacturing policy.
The policy, he explained, will provide tax incentives and other benefits to support local manufacturers.
He expressed pride in the number of new small businesses on the island, and is glad to see residents take advantage of Anguilla’s economic growth.
“They’re taking the initiative to jump ahead and to ensure that they are poised to capitalise on the opportunities are being created,” he told members.
He praised Huligar, who he called “a very responsible businessman, a very innovative businessman” with a proactive attitude.
“He doesn’t complain. His mantra is ‘get up and get started’, every morning, get up and get started. No excuses – let’s get it done, and that’s what I really admire,” the minister said.
Others who expressed support for the business and the motion included opposition member Cardigan Connor, innovation minister Quincia Gumbs-Marie, and labour minister Kenneth Hodge.
