Citing sources from the Finance Ministry, the Listin Diario reports this morning that government revenues for January represented RD$9 billion, approximately RD$2.8 billion, or 45.7%, more than revenues for the same period last year. The new taxes effected late last year contributed RD$380.5 million to the government coffers. Income tax showed a 342.5% increase, reflecting growth in taxation on companies and wages. Other measures that were a factor in the upsurge were a doubling of the US$10 departure tax to US$20, tourist card sales and exchange rate fees. Customs contributed RD$3.8 billion, or 31.5%, more than last year, reflecting the general rise in prices.
This year, the government expects to receive RD$105 billion. Income tax for January 2004 stood at RD$2.84 billion, compared to RD$1.6 billion in January 2003. ITBIS (value-added sales tax) brought in RD$2.1 billion, or 29.4% more than last year. The fuel tax produced RD$749.8 million, or 2.1% less than in 2003, demonstrating the lull in sales as the general public bought less fuel at the new high prices. Property taxes produced RD$199.2 million, or 147.5% of the same period last year. License plate taxes were up 603%, reflecting the hefty increase in their overall prices. Taxes on foreign trade accounted for RD$1.2 billion, up 36.6% over last year.