President Wavel Ramkalawan chaired a scheduled meeting of the Cabinet yesterday Wednesday, 24th September, in which a number of legal and policy memoranda were approved.
Cabinet approved the Cybercrime and Other Related Crimes (Amendment) Bill, 2025, to strengthen the national legal framework against evolving cyber threats. The Bill expands provisions on offences such as online fraud, identity theft, and cyber harassment, while enhancing investigative tools and international cooperation. It also ensures that enforcement remains consistent with constitutional safeguards and international best practices.
Cabinet approved Seychelles’ accession to the Vienna Convention on the Law of Treaties (VCLT). The Convention is recognised as the cornerstone of modern treaty law, codifying customary international principles on the formation, interpretation, and termination of treaties. The decision carries no financial implications and will strengthen Seychelles’ international cooperation, good faith in treaty-making, and alignment with global practice.
The Cabinet approved the renewal of the MoU between Seychelles and the United Arab Emirates for a further five years (2025–2030) and agreed that the Foreign Affairs Department will coordinate its implementation. Cabinet also endorsed the proposed new priority areas of cooperation—Zero Bureaucracy, Cybersecurity, Healthcare, Youth Empowerment, Police Cooperation, and Education—while noting that existing areas of collaboration will continue. Cabinet directed that national priorities should guide the selection and implementation of projects to ensure effective use of resources and maximum benefits.
Cabinet re-affirmed the position of Government that there are no new taxes to be introduced in Seychelles.
Cabinet noted that there is no tax on capital gains and dividends in Seychelles. This current position will be maintained.
Cabinet also resolved to maintain the change to the income tax regime as presented and approved by the National Assembly in 2024. The change proposed then would provide relief to tax payers who had contributed to healthcare expenses, additional voluntary pension contributions, interest paid on home loans, any insurance taken for medical or housing purposes, private schooling and interest paid on educational loans. The precise mechanism would be formulated in 2026. The proposed tax relief would encourage investment by Seychellois in their future and that of their families whilst reducing dependence on government systems.
Cabinet also resolved that any major changes, if necessary, to the tax regime would only be done after due consultation and discussions have been held with the private sector through the Joint Economic Forum.
Cabinet expressed deep sadness at the passing of Ms. Katty Melanie, a popular and much-respected Seychellois artist. Her talent, creativity and warmth touched the lives of many, and she will be remembered for the joy and inspiration she brought to our nation’s cultural life. Cabinet extends its heartfelt condolences to her family, friends, and the artistic community at this time of loss.
Relevant Ministries will provide details.