Antigua Motors General Manager Paul "Pablo" Ryan has pushed back against recent characterisations by Prime Minister Gaston Browne regarding the motor vehicle industry's position on vehicle taxation, insisting that dealers are not seeking the elimination of all duties — but rather a fair and consistent tax system for every buyer.
According to Antigua.news, Ryan clarified that dealerships have long advocated for equity in how vehicle taxes are applied, not a wholesale removal of taxes.
"None of us would have ever agreed to remove all taxes," Ryan stated. "That will definitely not be anything that any car dealer would recommend."
Ryan outlined the current tax structure on vehicles, noting that import duty stands at 35 percent, the Revenue Recovery Charge at 10 percent, and the Antigua and Barbuda Sales Tax at 17 percent. Additional levies include a $1,000 charge on new vehicles and a $4,000 levy on used vehicles.
He also pointed out that while electric vehicles benefit from zero import duty, other taxes continue to apply — reinforcing his position that import duty represents only one component of the broader taxation framework.
At the heart of Ryan's argument is the issue of concessions. He contends that inconsistent duty relief granted to certain buyers has created an uneven marketplace that disadvantages both dealers and consumers.
"If it's full duty for John, let it be full duty for Joe. If Jane is getting 50 percent off, then Mary should get 50 percent off," he said.
Ryan explained that these disparities create tangible complications for dealerships, distorting vehicle valuations and complicating pricing across the market.
"You may sell a vehicle for $100,000 with all taxes paid, and then someone else gets the same vehicle for $75,000 or $80,000 with duty concessions. That creates valuation issues down the line," he said.
Ryan argued that a standardised approach — whether full duty, partial reductions, or targeted relief — would create fairness for dealers, importers, and consumers alike. He also suggested that reforming, rather than eliminating, the duty structure could serve both consumers and the government.
"At the end of the day, the consumer will benefit," Ryan said, adding that a more balanced system could make newer vehicles more accessible and reduce the number of older, less reliable cars on Antiguan roads.
He further noted that a structured adjustment of duties could potentially increase overall government revenue by improving compliance and broadening participation in the formal market.
Nevertheless, Ryan was unequivocal in rejecting any move toward the full removal of vehicle taxes.
"I would never agree to all taxes being removed from motor vehicles," he said.
Antigua.news reports that it is awaiting responses from other motor vehicle dealers on the island.
