The Prime Minister of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines announced a ban on the importation of expanded polystyrene (Styrofoam) food service products with effect from 1st May, 2017. At the same time, he announced the removal of Value Added Tax (VAT) on biodegradable alternatives with a view to lowering the cost of more environmentally positive substitutes and to reduce the adverse effects of plastics on the environment. Under the new legislation, importers have up to 90 days after 1st May, 2017 to receive all orders placed before that date and all sale and use of Styrofoam food service products will be strictly prohibited after 31st January, 2018 except specifically permitted to do so by the Minister.