Prime Minister Gaston Browne has raised concerns about financial practices in the hospitality industry, warning against what he described as “tax manipulation” by some businesses in the sector.
Speaking on Pointe FM, Browne claimed that certain hotels have been underreporting revenue, potentially reducing the amount of taxes owed to the government.
He pointed to discrepancies in room tax and head tax reporting, alleging that some companies declare significantly lower figures than what guests are actually charged.
“There are hotels that sell rooms for thousands of dollars per night but report a fraction of that for tax purposes. This type of manipulation deprives the country of much-needed revenue,” Browne said.
He also criticized deductions for marketing expenses, arguing that some businesses inflate their claims, thereby reducing their taxable earnings.
The government, he said, plans to renegotiate agreements with major hotels to set clearer limits on deductions and ensure that all taxes owed are fairly collected.
Browne emphasized that while the government supports incentives to attract investment, it will not allow companies to take advantage of tax concessions in ways that undermine national revenue.
Discussions are expected to continue with industry stakeholders as the government moves to strengthen financial oversight and transparency in the tourism sector.
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it’s good to see the government stepping in.
Tax manipulation is so crucial.
I hope they know it’s also important to ensure that the regulations don’t overburden smaller businesses in the sector.
Tourism is the main industry yet the workers can’t get a main money they deserve also
Stop digging in the service charge and Antigua need more locals in top positions managing our hotels…too much arrogant prejudice white people when we have local talent right here