Government tax collections were up almost 60% during the first quarter of 2004 compared to the same period last year. Tax revenues represented RD$15.2 billion, up from RD$9.6 billion in 2003. Income tax collection increased 21.5% (RD$1.9 billion), taxes on wages 20% (RD$1.5 billion), company taxes 27% (RD$2.5 billion), property taxes 46% (RD$449 million), ITBIS value-added tax 44% (RD$4.3 billion) and import tariffs were up 45% (RD$1.6 billion).
In March alone, income tax collections increased 57%, to reach RD$4.9 billion.
According to the report in the Listin Diario, tourist card sales produced 153% more for the January-March 2004 period, compared to the same period in 2003. The sale of tourist cards brought in US$375.92 million in 2004, up from US$148.35 million in 2003.