Dear Editor,

The Guyana Revenue Authority has been administering tax as efficiently as possible even before the implementation of the Value Added Tax. However, it was noted that with the consumption tax, a lot of persons evaded the tax system resulting in a loss of lots of revenue. The VAT is a tax system which is not only comprehensive but will leave a paper trail which will definitely help the GRA to police and ensure that more tax is collected.

In addition, the VAT is a fair and efficient means of mobilizing revenue which is needed to provide social and economic development.

To ease the burden on consumers the government has added to the already existing list of Zero-items, 40 more items. With so many items being now zero-rated, living becomes more tolerable.

VAT is not intended to push people over or below the poverty line but is here to draw a balance so all can pay their fair share of taxes.

Even though initially VAT had some hiccups, these to my view are now behind us. What is commendable is that the government listens to the people, thus more items have become zero rated bringing much needed relief.

Yours faithfully,

Mark White