Basseterre, Saint Kitts – In a bold policy move designed to accelerate the Caribbean nation’s transition to low-carbon transportation, the government of Saint Kitts and Nevis has announced a 35-percentage-point cut to import duties on fully electric vehicles under four years old. The sweeping reduction, which will lower import taxes from 45 percent to just 10 percent, takes effect May 1, 2026.
Energy Minister Konris Maynard unveiled the new measure during an official launch ceremony for two groundbreaking national sustainability programs – Solar Integration for Sustainable Energy (SOLARISE) and Decarbonised Roadway Initiative for Vehicle Electrification (DRIVE) – held at the CUNA Conference Room on April 30.
Maynard emphasized that the tariff cut is far more than a minor policy adjustment, framing it as a transformative shift for the country’s transportation and energy sectors. “This government is about accelerating the transition to electric mobility and electric vehicles,” he told attendees, noting that the steep reduction is intended to remove a key financial barrier to EV adoption for local residents and citizens.
Beyond making the initial purchase of electric vehicles more accessible, Maynard – a personal EV owner himself – pointed to the ongoing financial benefits that come with electric transportation. Owners of EVs routinely see far lower costs for fuel, regular operation, and routine maintenance compared to drivers of traditional gas-powered vehicles, he explained.
The policy forms a core part of the government’s broader long-term strategy to build a more resilient national energy system, modernize the country’s transportation infrastructure, diversify the local economy, and position Saint Kitts and Nevis to compete effectively in an increasingly decarbonized global economy.
The launch of both the SOLARISE and DRIVE initiatives, along with the accompanying tariff cut, drew full high-level support from the national Cabinet, including Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew, Deputy Prime Minister Dr. Geoffrey Hanley, Tourism Minister Marsha Henderson, Sustainable Development Minister Dr. Joyelle Clarke, and Social Development Minister Isalean Phillip. This cross-government backing signals the country’s unified commitment to advancing its climate and sustainability goals.