No ABST on Food Items and Back-To-School Supplies August 28 and 29

The Antigua and Barbuda Sales Tax will be completely removed from food items and a wide assortment of school supplies on August 28 and 29.

Cabinet confirmed the tax relief measure at its meeting on Wednesday, indicating this will provide families with an opportunity to make essential back-to-school purchases at reduced costs.

The ABST initiative will cover a broad range of school-related items, including pencils, pens, notebooks, school uniforms, school bags, shoes, calculators, geometry sets, art supplies, information technology supplies and home economics supplies and food items.

The government says the measure forms part of its wider programme of support for students and families, which includes the provision of school uniforms and the School Meals Programme.

Cabinet implemented a similar measure on April 10 and 11, 2026, when ABST was removed from food items and school supplies ahead of the reopening of schools following the Easter break.

More in the ABS Evening News at 7.