Today I met with representatives from the grocery retail industry because my number one goal remains clear: bringing down the cost of living for Bahamian families.
Families across our country are working hard every day, and they deserve a government that stays focused on easing pressure at the checkout line and around the kitchen table. That is why we came together today in a spirit of cooperation and shared purpose.
I am pleased we could find a solution so that Bahamians will benefit from the change of VAT on unprepared food in grocery stores beginning April 1.
This is about helping families keep more of their money in their pockets. It is about making everyday essentials more affordable. And it is about showing that when government and industry come together with goodwill and seriousness, we can deliver real results for the people we serve.
I believe in having an open door.
I believe in listening.
I believe that even when challenges are tough, progress is possible when we sit down together, speak honestly, and stay focused on the people who sent us here to work on their behalf.
That is the approach I have always tried to bring to leadership. I believe we can work together to solve our country’s toughest challenges. I believe in partnership. I believe in practical action. And I believe in building on the progress we have already made for the Bahamian people.
Today’s meeting was another example of that approach in action. We listened to each other. We worked through the issues. And we agreed on a way forward that keeps the focus where it belongs, on delivering relief for Bahamian families.
April 1 will mark an important step. The full removal of VAT on unprepared food in grocery stores will help many families across The Bahamas as they manage the rising cost of living. My government will keep working every day to find ways to ease the burden on working people, support households, and move this country forward.
That is my commitment.
That is this government’s focus.
And that is the work we will continue doing together.