GST de minimis changes to come into effect

Islanders are reminded that the change to the “de minimis” level for paying GST on unaccompanied imported goods comes into effect on 1 October. From that date, the value at which imported goods will be liable for GST will reduce from £240 to £135.

The change was outlined in the Government Plan 2020-2023, agreed by the States Assembly in December 2019, and was originally due to come into effect on 1 July 2020. 

Following the outbreak of COVID-19, Minister for Treasury and Resources, Deputy Susie Pinel, delayed the introduction of the change until 1 October. 

The reduction of the “de minimis” level was introduced to enable local businesses to compete more fairly with off-Island retailers and support the local economy. It applies to goods which are bought by individuals for their own private use.