The Trinidad and Tobago Manufacturers’ Association (TTMA) is urging the government to extend to tobacco manufacturers the 25% excise tax reduction granted to the alcohol industry, citing rising illicit cigarette sales and declining competitiveness among legitimate businesses. TTMA President Emil Ramkissoon made the request at the association’s awards dinner, saying illicit tobacco trade already exceeds 12.5% of the market and could increase following the implementation of a 100% excise tax on tobacco products.
Ramkissoon also cited customs efficiency, port operations, regulatory processes, and the broader ease of doing business as priorities for local manufacturers.
