Survey Finds Health & Citizen Security Levy Impacting Businesses

A 2024 third-quarter business performance survey by the St. Lucia Chamber of Commerce, Industry, and Agriculture found that most respondents indicated that the Health & Citizen Security Levy had affected their business operations. The survey cited the Levy as one of the main drivers of price increases, along with the cost of goods the businesses trade in, and labour costs. “62% of respondents indicate that their businesses have been affected by the Health & Citizens Security Levy, with 51% citing that the Levy has impacted costs and 58% profitability,” the document, released earlier this month, stated. It said the results appear to signal a need for closer examination of the impact and effectiveness of the measure on the business community, especially since more exemptions were granted than initially planned. By contrast, the survey revealed that implementation of the minimum wage apparently had a minimal impact on most respondents, only 20% of whom reported feeling the impact. The Executive Director of the Chamber of Commerce, Brian Louisy, said the survey reflected optimism regarding the economy. “Business people are not reducing their investment plans. They are continuing to hire. Sizes remain stable,” Louisy noted. According to the survey, cash flow improved or...