Bars and Restaurants Close Across T&T Amid Rising Taxes and Economic Pressures
Bars and restaurants across Trinidad and Tobago are reportedly shutting their doors following increases in alcohol and gaming taxes announced by Finance Minister Davendranath Tancoo in the 2026 national budget. A social media list claimed that around 30 establishments have closed due to higher fees, though some closures were unrelated to taxation.
Scotchie’s Sports Bar in Arima confirmed its closure on social media, citing a combination of steep tax hikes and rising licence fees. The post stated that a 100% increase in alcohol taxes, a 400% increase in the Amusement Gaming Tax (from $6,000 to $24,000 per screen), and liquor licence fees rising from $1,800 to $9,000 made it unsustainable to continue operations.
“For the past eight years we have created memorable events and lifetime friendships at this location,” the bar said. “However, with the sudden tax increases, it is difficult to stay afloat. We have decided to quit while we are ahead and reassess the economic climate before proceeding in a way that could damage our brand.”
DND Restaurant and Bar in Siparia also confirmed its closure on social media, thanking customers and staff for their support. “With heavy hearts, we have to say goodbye as we close this chapter of DND Restaurant & Bar,” the post read. “Although this chapter comes to an end, the memories, friendships, and experiences will always remain with us.”
Livie’s Bar in Rio Claro and Raj Bar & Lounge in Tunapuna also announced closures, with Raj planning to relocate to a “bigger and better venue.” Other businesses listed as closed on social media include La Vida Bar and Lounge in Maraval and Charlie’s Bar in San Francique, while Sips Bar in Cunupia had already closed in October 2025.
However, not all claims were accurate. Mamoos Bar in Mc Bean confirmed it would reopen after temporarily closing due to its landlord’s death, and Chillax Rest and Bar in Fyzabad stated it is still fully operational.
President of the Bar Owners Association of Trinidad and Tobago (BOATT), Sateesh Moonasar, said the Association is working with the government to navigate the new tax measures. He emphasized that closures occur regularly in the industry and that the recent taxes have not yet directly caused any shutdowns. “The increased taxes take effect when licences are renewed in April. Some closures may be due to individual circumstances rather than the new taxes,” he said.
Moonasar added that the industry remains viable, noting that many bars previously closed are being taken over by new operators.
Earlier this month, Port of Spain’s D’Bocas bar announced a shift to a food-only business model, citing broader economic challenges affecting the bar industry. The post stated that the decision was necessary to maintain operations and expand into prime locations throughout Trinidad.
Efforts to reach Finance Minister Tancoo for comment were unsuccessful at the time of publication.
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