To combat the rising costs of commodities on the global market, the government has taken decisive action to alleviate the burden of inflation on the population.
In a significant move to reduce the cost of living, the authorities have eliminated the 6% service charge previously imposed on essential goods. This measure took effect on June 1.
Minister for Commerce, Emma Hippolyte, emphasized that these policies directly respond to soaring global food prices, aiming to alleviate economic pressure on Saint Lucians.
“As of June 1, this government has removed service charges on all price-controlled products as part of our ongoing commitment to lessen the impact of rising prices,” the minister stated at a recent media briefing.
“This was enacted through Statutory Instrument #82 of 2025, and the measure is effective from June 1 until May 31, 2026. It applies to a wide array of essential goods, including packaged rice, flour, milk, cooking oil, potatoes, baby food, and canned items,” she added.
The Commerce Minister stated that the Consumer Affairs Department will closely monitor the implementation of the government’s price control policies.
Businesses must submit price control calculation sheets to obtain approval for both wholesale and retail prices. These prices are determined using a legitimate fixed or percentage markup, ranging from 7.5% to 11% at the retail level and 10% to 20% at the wholesale level.
The minister confirmed that the six percent price reduction policy is being implemented correctly and that businesses are adhering to the measure.