The figure includes reduced revenue from the excise tax on fuel and the cost of subsidising cooking gas. Philip J. Pierre said Government has collected EC$39.2 million less in fuel excise tax and spent EC$5.7 million subsidising cooking gas during the period. “This is concerning, but we have taken these decisions to reduce the burden on the people of Saint Lucia,” Prime Minister Pierre said. Despite the financial pressure, the Government will keep fuel prices unchanged during the next pricing cycle. Prime Minister Pierre also assured Saint Lucians that sound fiscal management will allow the Government to continue delivering on the promises made in the 2026/2027 Budget.