Nevis Island Assembly Approves Amendment to Tourist Amenities Act (2025)

The Nevis Island Assembly passed the Amenities for Tourists (Amendment) Bill, 2025, following extensive deliberations between government and opposition members. This amendment, introduced by Premier Mark Brantley, who also serves as Minister of Finance and Tourism, increases the Tourism Development Levy (TDL) from 2% to 3%. This consumer-based tax applies to revenue generated from accommodations in hotels and guesthouses, and from food and beverage sales in hotels and restaurants registered under the TDL. The revenue generated from this levy is primarily utilized to fund the Nevis Tourism Authority and its global marketing campaigns aimed at promoting Nevis as a desirable tourist destination.

Premier Brantley had initially announced the intended TDL increase during his Budget presentation in December 2024. This announcement was followed by consultations with key stakeholders involved in collecting the tax from consumers. These discussions resulted in a collective agreement to implement the increase in June 2025, strategically timed after the peak tourist season. This approach was designed to minimize any potential disruption to pre-existing bookings made under the earlier 2% levy, thereby protecting businesses and consumers from unexpected financial implications.

This 1% increase in the TDL represents a vital investment in the continued promotion and development of Nevis’ tourism sector. By allocating this additional revenue to the Nevis Tourism Authority, the government aims to bolster marketing initiatives and further enhance the global visibility of the island. This strategic allocation of resources reflects the government’s commitment to expanding the tourism industry, a key driver of economic growth and development in Nevis.

The decision to implement the increase after the peak season demonstrates a sensitivity to the needs of businesses and consumers. By allowing existing contracts based on the previous 2% levy to be honored, the government aims to ensure a smooth transition and avoid any potential negative impact on the industry. This careful consideration of stakeholder interests underscores the government’s commitment to fostering a sustainable and thriving tourism sector.

The increased TDL, while a modest adjustment, is projected to generate significant additional resources for the Nevis Tourism Authority. These funds will enable the authority to expand its marketing reach, explore new promotional avenues, and enhance its overall efforts to attract visitors to Nevis. The focus on proactive marketing is crucial in a competitive global tourism landscape, ensuring that Nevis remains an attractive and desirable destination for travelers seeking a unique and enriching experience.

In essence, the passage of the Amenities for Tourists (Amendment) Bill, 2025, signifies a proactive step by the Nevis Island Administration to secure the long-term health and prosperity of its tourism sector. The strategic increase in the TDL, combined with the thoughtful implementation timeline, reflects a balanced approach aimed at generating crucial funding while minimizing disruption to ongoing business operations. This initiative underscores the government’s commitment to sustainable tourism development and its recognition of the vital role this sector plays in the island’s economic well-being.