The Greater Tunapuna Chamber of Industry and Commerce (GTCIC) has issued a stark warning regarding the recently implemented doubling of customs fees, asserting that the measure will impose severe financial pressure on small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and ultimately lead to increased consumer prices. The fee adjustments, formally gazetted on December 25, 2025, came into effect on January 1, 2026, significantly raising the cost of importing goods.
Under Legal Notice 472, the customs declaration fee per package has surged from $40 to $80. Concurrently, Legal Notice 473 mandates a substantial increase in container examination charges, which have jumped from $375 to $750 for standard containers and from $525 to $1,050 for larger units. Although these changes were initially outlined in the 2025/26 national budget, the GTCIC emphasizes that prior announcement does not equate to operational or financial preparedness for the business community.
In an official statement, Chamber President Ramon Gregorio highlighted the particular vulnerability of SMEs, which typically operate on narrow profit margins and possess limited cash flow flexibility. These businesses are already contending with a multitude of economic challenges, including freight volatility, foreign exchange shortages, elevated financing costs, and persistent inflation. The chamber cautions that the additional financial burden from customs fees threatens to decelerate business activity, postpone expansion initiatives, and undermine confidence among smaller operators.
The GTCIC further projects that a significant portion of these increased costs will be transferred to consumers, especially within the retail and distribution sectors. E-commerce enterprises and courier-dependent businesses are expected to face disproportionate impacts, as the revised fee structure imposes greater strain on digital business models and emerging entrepreneurs who rely on frequent, low-volume imports.
While acknowledging the government’s legitimate revenue requirements and the necessity of cost-recovery mechanisms in fiscal management, the chamber insists that such measures must be carefully balanced against the imperative of business sustainability and broader economic growth. The GTCIC advocates for tangible enhancements in customs operations—including accelerated processing times, fully digitized clearance procedures, and ongoing stakeholder engagement—rather than mere fee increases. The chamber also recommends implementing relief mechanisms or tiered fee structures specifically designed for SMEs and low-value shipments.
The Finance Ministry has estimated that the new customs fees, alongside other adjustments, will generate approximately $1 billion in additional state revenue. However, the GTCIC maintains that SMEs should not be expected to bear this fiscal burden without commensurate support and operational improvements. The chamber reaffirms its commitment to constructive dialogue with policymakers, aiming to collaborate on solutions that ensure efficient customs administration while protecting business viability and national economic development.