SVG’s Government pushes for PayPal accessibility 

By Admin. Updated 1:53 p.m., Thursday, November 28, 2024, Atlantic Standard Time (GMT-4). 

Currently, residents of St. Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) can only make payments through PayPal.

Aside from refunds for purchases, it is not possible for individuals in SVG to receive payments via PayPal, which is an online payment system that facilitates sending and receiving money globally.

The Agency for Public Information (API) has stated that the government is working to resolve this issue.

In a press release dated November 28, the API announced that the government of SVG is “making significant strides in its ongoing negotiations with PayPal to enable access for Vincentians to the popular digital payment platform.”

Hon. Camillo Gonsalves, Minister of Finance, confirmed that discussions with PayPal are progressing, although the process has been slower than expected, according to the API.

“For too long, Vincentians have faced unnecessary obstacles in accessing PayPal services, despite being part of the Eastern Caribbean Currency Union with harmonized financial laws,” said Minister Gonsalves. “PayPal initially expressed concerns about differing legal systems, but we’ve clarified that our systems align seamlessly with those in other member states like Antigua and Barbuda. We’re optimistic that we are now on the verge of achieving parity.” 

“The Government has emphasized the importance of platforms like PayPal for young entrepreneurs, digital creators, and small businesses looking to expand their reach globally. Minister Gonsalves added that while progress has been made, the government will continue advocating for equitable access at a regional and international level,” the API said.

“We understand how critical PayPal is for digital creators and online entrepreneurs, and we are committed to breaking down these barriers,” said Gonsalves.