Opposition Spokesperson on Tourism and Linkages, Andrea Purkiss, has condemned the Government after it passed legislation to impose General Consumption Tax on short-term rentals including Airbnb properties at approximately 2 AM on Wednesday, slipping the measure through Parliament “like a thief in the night” with no public debate or consultation. 

The new tax takes effect April 1, 2027.

The short-term rental market has exploded, growing from 59,500 guests in 2017 to over 800,000 in 2024, generating more than $32 billion for property owners. Many Jamaicans locally and abroad have invested in properties to generate income, and many rent out rooms, or additional units on their property to help pay bills and cover costs. This new burden threatens their livelihoods.

Ms Purkiss said: “The Government’s decision to rush this through in the dead of night shows complete disregard for the thousands of ordinary Jamaicans who depend on short term rentals to survive. There was no warning, no consultation, just stealth. We demand an explanation.”

The Opposition is calling for transparency and a full impact assessment before implementation.