KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Opposition People’s National Party (PNP) says it is deeply concerned about the negative impact that the announced increase in Special Consumption Tax (SCT) on petrol will have on the Jamaica Urban Transit Company (JUTC).

Opposition Spokesman on Transport Mikael Phillips said in a statement that the tax, which takes effect on Wednesday, will cause “major increases in public transportation cost.”

“Such a significant price movement in gas prices will create economic havoc and hardship throughout, as all goods and services will now be increased and the poor will be burdened even more,” Phillips argued. 

He also expressed concern about the announced increase on motor vehicle licence-related fees, saying the increases are “are tantamount to declaring war on the travelling public”. 

Phillips described the tax as “immoral”, adding that “discretionary spending will go down, business will slow and some folks may even lose their jobs”.