The government has released details on Seychelles tourism relief measures for businesses, hours before an Urgent Question by opposition leader Bernard Georges in the National Assembly on the same issue.
Mr Georges submitted the Urgent Question on Monday 30 March. The Clerk of the National Assembly approved it the same day.
In his submission, Mr Georges asked whether the government has any plans to support tourism-related businesses. He cited the impact of the ongoing war in the Gulf and a reduction in tourist arrivals. He said this situation is affecting small businesses, including taxi operators, car hire services, guesthouses and restaurants.
Later that day, at 15:50, the Seychelles Revenue Commission issued a statement outlining relief measures.
The commission said businesses in the tourism sector will receive a three-month extension to pay Business Tax and Presumptive Tax for the 2025 financial year. These payments were originally due on 31 March 2026.
“The Seychelles Revenue Commission (SRC) has today announced that businesses within the tourism sector including those conducting tourism related activities will be granted a three-month extension from payment of the Business and Presumptive taxes for applicable year 2025,” the statement said.
The extension took effect on 30 March 2026. It also includes a waiver on interest and penalties until 30 June 2026. The commission said penalties and interest will apply from 1 July 2026 if payments remain outstanding.
However, businesses must meet conditions to qualify. They must submit their annual returns for the 2025 financial year by 31 March 2026, or follow an approved lodgement programme through tax agents.
The commission has asked businesses to apply using a dedicated form. It said forms are available online and at its offices on Mahé, Praslin and La Digue. It also encouraged businesses to meet the extended deadline or seek payment arrangements if needed.
The relief applies to a wide range of tourism-related activities. These include hotels, guesthouses, restaurants, car hire operators, tour operators, and transport services.
The Urgent Question is scheduled for Tuesday 31 March. The government is expected to respond in the National Assembly.