During the 2026 estimates debate, Minister of National Security St Clair Leacock highlighted the VAT free day as a significant economic event that demonstrated positive momentum in St. Vincent and the Grenadines,.
Leacock said that approximately $28 million was turned over during the VAT free day. Adding to the joy, the Deputy PM said the bonus salary event reportedly left a majority of people with “a smile on their face” as they visited the banks.
The minister emphasized the personal impact on citizens, mentioning that some individuals held and added $1,000 or $2,000 in their hands for the first time in a long time, allowing them to decide how to spend that money.
The success of the VAT free day was linked to a broader sense of “hope” for the most vulnerable citizens, alongside other initiatives like the $500 pension contributions mentioned by the Minister of Social Development.
Leacock used these observations to argue that “things… are happening” under the current administration and that the budget estimates are a guide toward future development and the improvement of life in the country,.
This aligns with the administration’s self-description as a “people-centered” government, he stated.