The Gibraltar Federation of Small Businesses (GFSB) notes the Government’s press release of 23rd March regarding the forthcoming transaction tax and the messaging surrounding its implementation.
While it is important that accurate information is provided to the public by businesses, the GFSB is concerned that the tone and framing of the communication may be interpreted in a way that risks creating unnecessary tension between consumers and local businesses.
In the lead up to the Treaty implementation next month, some businesses have advised customers that they may wish to consider placing orders ahead of the proposed 15% transaction tax and the introduction of additional EU-related tariffs where applicable. This advice has primarily been offered as a precautionary measure to help customers mitigate or entirely avoid cost increases once the Treaty comes into effect.
At a time when the business community is already facing significant uncertainty, it is essential that public communications remain measured, balanced and reflective of the realities faced by businesses on the ground. This includes preparing customers for likely price increases, which is an entirely legitimate consequence of businesses adjusting to cope with a significant increase in duties that will be payable under the Treaty.
Businesses across Gibraltar are currently navigating a period of uncertainty as they prepare for the implementation of the Treaty framework and the associated changes to duties and customs environment. In this context, many businesses are simply trying to provide practical guidance to their customers while they themselves seek clarity on how the new arrangements will operate in practice and assimilating how changes will impact their businesses, including consumer pricing.
Public messaging that is not carefully framed can position consumers against local businesses. That undermines the ability of Gibraltar collectively to meet the challenges that the Treaty presents.
The GFSB remains committed to working constructively with the Government to ensure that the transition to the new system is clearly understood by both businesses and consumers alike.
