Written by Oasis Land Development | Cayman Islands Land Specialists
Last updated: 20 January 2026

The Cayman Islands Government has officially extended a comprehensive package of duty concessions through 31 December 2030, offering significant advantages for land owners looking to build. This strategic decision, approved by Cabinet, aims to stimulate sustainable development across all three islands: Grand Cayman, Cayman Brac, and Little Cayman. For those navigating the Managed Pathway of land ownership, these extended waivers and reduced rates provide a clear financial incentive to move from acquisition to construction. Whether you hold a land lot in the bustling centre of Grand Cayman or the tranquil Sister Islands, understanding these changes is vital for your long-term planning.

Quick Investor Facts

• Extension Date: Concessions are valid through 31 December 2030.
• Cayman Brac: 100% import duty waiver on building materials and 100% stamp duty waiver on undeveloped land (under CI$2m).
• Little Cayman: 100% import duty waiver on building materials and gasoline.
• Grand Cayman: Flat 15% import duty rate on building materials (reduced from the standard 22%).

The Sister Islands: Unmatched Development Incentives

The most aggressive concessions target the Sister Islands, reinforcing the government's commitment to spurring economic activity on Cayman Brac and Little Cayman. For land owners in these territories, the cost of construction remains significantly lower than the industry standard. The government has maintained a 100% import duty waiver on all building materials for both islands. Additionally, the waiver on gasoline imports, previously exclusive to Cayman Brac, has now been extended to Little Cayman, further reducing logistical costs for projects. Cayman Brac receives an additional tier of benefits designed to encourage immediate development. The government offers a 100% stamp duty waiver on the purchase of undeveloped land lots valued under CI$2 million, provided the owner completes construction within two years. Furthermore, a reduced stamp duty rate of 3% applies to developed properties under the same value threshold. These measures make freehold land in the Cayman Islands—specifically the Sister Islands—an exceptionally attractive proposition for those ready to build their legacy. Explore our available Cayman land lots here.

Grand Cayman: Stability with a Flat 15% Rate

While the Sister Islands benefit from complete waivers, Grand Cayman operates under a different economic framework as the commercial hub of the territory. However, the government recognises the need to keep construction costs manageable here as well. Consequently, the Cabinet has approved a flat import duty rate of 15% on building materials for Grand Cayman, extended through 2030. This is a notable reduction from the standard import duty rates, which typically range between 17% and 22% for such goods. It is important to note the specific definition of 'building materials' under this concession. The lower 15% rate applies to physical components and substances, whether solid or liquid, that form a permanent part of a structure during construction, renovation, or restoration. This definition strictly excludes items such as furniture, electronics, appliances, and accessories. Land owners planning to build on Grand Cayman can essentially lock in this reduced rate for the next four years, allowing for precise budget optimisation.

A Strategic Window for Land Owners

This extension to 2030 provides a five-year window of certainty for property owners. At Oasis Land Development, we view this as a critical component of your acquisition journey. By securing a land lot now, you position yourself to capitalise on these lower input costs when you decide to break ground. The requirement to develop within two years to qualify for the stamp duty waiver on Cayman Brac specifically encourages timely action, transforming empty lots into valuable residential homes. For more details on how these government policies impact your specific property goals, or to discuss available land lots that qualify for these incentives, please visit our Knowledge Hub or contact our team directly. We are committed to transparency and ensuring you have all the facts required to make informed decisions about your property portfolio in the Cayman Islands.