The Relief Already Exists. Are Boat Owners Missing Out?

Saint Lucia already has the legislative framework for easing costs in our maritime sector. The question is whether boat owners know these concessions exist and whether the process feels accessible in practice.

Under the Agriculture and Fisheries Incentives Act, qualifying agricultural and fisheries projects may be eligible for exemptions from import duties and taxes on approved capital equipment. This includes fishing boats, outboard engines, refrigeration trucks, forklifts used by processors and exporters, and other equipment approved by the Minister for commercial fishing, processing, or exporting activities. The relief itself sits in Part 5 of the Act, under the heading “Exemptions for Duties and Taxes,” which works alongside a licensing mechanism allowing the Minister to approve duty-free importation of qualifying equipment. In plain terms, the legal pathway to duty relief on engines and boats already exists in Saint Lucia. The gap is awareness and access, not legislation.

However, these concessions are not granted automatically. An applicant must submit a written request to the Minister, complete the prescribed application form, and provide supporting documentation. Equipment such as boats and engines may also be subject to a review five years after the incentives are first granted. Where an application is refused, the Act also provides an appeals process through a Board comprising representatives from the Attorney General’s Chambers, the Ministry of Agriculture, and the Customs and Excise Department.

This year’s national budget was built around a clear message, no new taxes, and a deliberate provide relief and expand opportunities for families and businesses. Supporting those who rely on vessels for fishing, marine transport, and tourism is consistent with that objective, particularly where legislative mechanisms for relief already exist.

The Chamber’s role is straightforward: raising awareness that this relief exists, encouraging eligible boat owners to apply, and providing guidance to help members navigate the application process. Applying for these concessions can feel intimidating when you are unsure what documentation is required or how best to prepare an application.

That is where we can help. Chamber of Shipping members can receive guidance on determining eligibility, preparing applications, compiling supporting documentation, and submitting requests to the relevant authorities.

If you own or operate a vessel and would like to explore whether you may qualify for duty concessions, we encourage you to contact the Saint Lucia Chamber of Shipping. Helping members navigate opportunities like these is one of the many ways membership delivers real value.