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The Cabinet has approved amendments to the Customs Management (Tariff and Classification of Goods) Regulations 2022 and the Excise Tax (Rates) Regulations 2023 in light of promoting eco-friendly vehicles and a circular economy
Seychelles President Wavel Ramkalawan chaired a scheduled meeting of the Cabinet on 24th July in which several legal and policy memoranda were approved.
The Cabinet has approved amendments to the Customs Management (Tariff and Classification of Goods) Regulations 2022 and the Excise Tax (Rates) Regulations 2023 in light of promoting eco-friendly vehicles and a circular economy. In response to private sector concerns about high taxes on chassis fitted with electric motors, such as for buggy/golf carts, the Cabinet has decided to reduce the customs duty and excise tax on chassis fitted with electric motors to 0%, maintaining only the 15% VAT. Previously, these chassis were subject to a 25% customs duty, 100% excise tax, and 15% VAT. The Cabinet’s approval aims to encourage the importation of environmentally friendly vehicles, supporting the government’s sustainability goals.
The Cabinet approved the implementation of the National Addressing System (NAS) in S42 format, including the postcode proposition. This system aims to provide a standardized, accurate, and efficient addressing framework to improve service delivery, economic growth, and quality of life in Seychelles. The Universal Postal Union (UPU) will support the implementation, with pilot testing in Beau Vallon and a planned rollout by March 2025.
The Cabinet approved the shortlisted potential Geographical Indications (GIs) products of Seychelles—namely Bourgeois, Kordonnyen sale, Coco de Mer, and Honey—for more in-depth analysis by a European Union (EU) expert.
The Cabinet approved solutions to address the generation capacity challenges faced by the Public Utilities Corporation (PUC) due to outdated generators in Mahe and Praslin. For Mahe, the proposal includes deploying three 1.5MW containerized generator sets and undertaking necessary foundation works. M.
The Cabinet approved a proposed three-party Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for Reem Energy Holdings (REEM) to develop utility-scale renewable energy projects across La Digue, Praslin, and Mahé. This MoU, involving the Seychelles government, the Public Utilities Corporation (PUC), and REEM, outlines REEM’s role in executing projects under the Build Own Operate Transfer (BOOT) principle. The projects, including solar PV with battery storage, floating solar PV, and wind energy, aim to generate 94.9 GWh annually, meeting renewable energy targets and reducing CO2 emissions by 193,848 tons over 25 years.
The Cabinet approved the establishment of a Government Service Centre in Victoria’s Waterfront area, aimed at providing a one-stop shop for public and business access to a wide range of government services aligned with Seychelles’ ease of doing business agenda. It will also house the Accelerator Unit, dedicated to rapidly addressing challenges, accelerating strategic programs, developing policies, and enhancing government services through collaboration and innovation. Fully funded by the UAE, this project will be managed by the Ministry of Investment, Entrepreneurship, and Industry.
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The Cabinet Paper approved a strategic plan for the Seychelles Petroleum Company (SEYPEC) to replace its aging tanker fleet with new, technologically advanced vessels.
