“The VAT Cut Is Good But More Can Be Done”

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NASSAU, BAHAMAS – Grocery store shoppers were out early this morning, many excited for the 5% value-added tax (VAT) slash on uncooked food items. Prime Minister Philip Davis announced the decrease in January, stating it would apply to a wide range of items available in food stores, including fresh fruits and vegetables, baby food, lunch snacks, and frozen foods.

Chevelle Smith – Resident
“Hell yeah, my VAT was only 4 something. My bill was 70 something dollars, I appreciate that.”

At Cost Right, one shopper noticed a slight difference, though it will take some time to get used to.

Rosemary Tulloch – Resident
“I don’t see much of a difference. I mean, inflation is global, so we’re really just passing it on to consumers. As the middle man here, the process is just handed down. So we’ll see; maybe we’ll have an impact, but if you ask me, people really need to prioritize how they spend their money.”

Sharon Thompson – Resident
“Yes, yes, I do. It’s excellent. I like it. If the government does good, we can always achieve what they have to offer, so they’re working with us.”

At Super Value Golden Gates, one resident expressed that the VAT decrease also benefits retirees.

Esther – Resident
“Those people with plenty of children would be able to get more stuff so their children could eat. You know, because times are hard, salary ain’t going up much. People like me who are pensioners, it’s good too. I really like it.”

For Chevelle Smith, the savings, although small, go a long way.

Chevelle Smith – Resident
“If you go to the food store, everything’s expensive. By the time they add what, 10% back, they’re adding another 10 dollars to that and change. So that VAT really eats up your money, so I appreciate the 5% drop. Now some people are still going to be grumpy, but I’m grateful.”

Resident
“Man, everything, man everything. Move VAT off everything; you need a change so we could live better. That way, we could get more things done.”

Esther – Resident
“Things like vitamins, washing products, and cooking oil.”

Sharon Thompson – Resident
“Taxes for land and all of that. That is important. If they cut the VAT and the taxes, it’s good for us because we can manage better with our kids and our living.”