Freelance Contributor
The Chaguanas Chamber of Industry and Commerce (CCIC) has voiced serious concern over the Government’s proposed landlord surcharge announced in the 2025 National Budget, warning that the measure could increase the cost of doing business across central Trinidad.
CCIC president Baldath Maharaj told Guardian Media that the business community recognises the potential burden this tax could place on property owners and, by extension, on commercial tenants. He added that while the intent behind the measure may be to strengthen national revenue, the ripple effects could be far-reaching, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
“We understand that many small and medium-sized enterprises are already operating on very thin margins since the pandemic. For these struggling businesses, the increase in rent resulting from this new tax may leave them with no choice but to pass on some of the cost to consumers to ensure their very survival and, critically, to protect the job tenure of their employees. This is a matter of last resort for business continuity,” he said.
The CCIC urged its members to remain calm, act responsibly, and avoid any form of price gouging or panic. “Our collective focus must be on maintaining stability and not on promoting a confrontational approach between businesses and their customers or clients.”
While acknowledging the Government’s efforts to achieve fiscal reform and economic stability, the CCIC welcomed measures such as VAT bonds for SMEs and the continuation of the tax amnesty.
The chamber reaffirmed its commitment to the principle of shared national responsibility and said it remains open to engaging with policymakers to find balanced solutions that safeguard both national revenue and the sustainability of the local commercial sector.
