Ageing population forces GST imposition; politician rebel
The Channel Island of Guernsey is considering implementing a Goods and Services Tax. This would help fill an gaping deficit as the working population shrinks and the social security costs of an ageing population mount. However, local politicians continue to resist the introduction of a consumption tax.
The likely rate will be 5%, with some measures to soften the impact for the less well off. The recommendation was published by the Policy & Resources Committee for debate with the alternative of a 3% Health Levy.
Guernsey follows Jersey’s GST lead
This will follow the other major island in the regime, Jersey, which introduced GST in 2008. This was originally at 3%, but was raised to the current 5% in June 2011.
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