The Anguilla House of Assembly has approved a change to the Goods and Services Tax Regulations, which removes GST from one-off public entertainment events.
The charge will no longer apply to annual cultural or commercial events such as concerts, sporting events, theatrical performances and other public shows.
The motion to approve the Goods and Services Tax (Amendment) Regulations, 2025 was debated and passed by members in the 15 July sitting of the assembly.
Along with the entertainment tax break, another approved amendment included the removal of GST on all food and drink items except alcoholic drinks, confectionary and ready to eat catered meals.
This regulation was backdated to 19 December, 2024, to reinforce the legislative changes that were made at the time, and will conclude in August.
Premier Cora Richardson Hodge, who presented the motion to members of the assembly, said the estimated annual loss to the government from removal of GST on public entertainment is $253,489.
She said the move is “designed to strengthen Anguilla’s cultural industries and promote cultural tourism, enhancing the island’s attractiveness and local creative economy”.
A two and a half hour-long debate followed with members from both sides of the House contributing their thoughts.
However, the majority of the discussion strayed from the specific amendment, focusing instead on broader GST relief and other related matters.
The session also included the first reading of the Goods and Services Tax (Amendment) Act, 2025.
The Goods and Services Tax (Amendment) Act, 2025 that reinforces the new regulations on GST on public entertainment will be debated in parliament on 29 July.
