Overseas Christmas shopping is set to become a little cheaper with the doubling of the duty-free allowance over the festive period.
Residents who return from overseas trips between 29 Nov. and 11 Jan. will be able to bring back $1,000 worth of goods, up from the usual allowance of $500.
The temporary lifting of the duty-free limit is an annual tradition and, this year, residents will benefit from a slightly longer period than in previous years.
The order, approved by Cabinet, is meant to help families at a time when many residents traditionally shop for holiday celebrations.
Personal use only
Goods over the temporary limit will have to be declared as usual, and the allowance does not apply to merchandise or goods intended for resale.
Travellers should retain receipts and declare items accurately, and customs officers can choose to verify information where necessary.
Nickolas DaCosta, minister for home affairs, said in the statement on the higher duty-free allowance, that the initiative reflects government’s commitment to supporting Caymanian families, while maintaining strong border operations.
“As a government, we want to ease some of the pressure families feel during the holidays,” he said. “By temporarily increasing the duty-free allowance, residents will have a little more flexibility to prepare and celebrate the season. This change will also help keep airport processing smooth and efficient during our busiest weeks.
“It’s a simple, people-focused step that supports families while ensuring our border operations continue to run fairly and effectively for everyone.”
After the temporary-increase period ends on 11 Jan. 2026, the standard $500 duty-free allowance will resume.
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Why do we always do this? Anyone who can fly off island for shopping doesn’t need duty relief.
It is a slap in the face to lower income Caymanians and residents. Also the failure to support local businesses results in higher prices as they sell lower volumes due to this idiotic “tradition”.
This Order by Cabinet to forbear Government revenue is minimal ($300K or $400K), however this ill-advised abatement, benefits those who are most fortunate this time of the year to have spare money for airfare and travel arrangements. The MOF just declined an application for the waiver of stamp duty on land purchase for a young Caymanian to build a home on. It is disappointing to witness how the Government constantly seeks new avenues to reward their supporters, and hangers on. Meanwhile The Loyalist look the other way and make every excuse to justify such nepotic behaviour from the very people who have been put in place to ensure taxes and abatements should be fair and equitable to all.