The group has submitted a report to the States giving its opinion on the proposal to start charging boat owners fuel duty.
Since the 1970s, boat users have been able to fill up with red diesel or petrol, which has remained duty free because fishermen and pleasure boat owners rely on the sea for their trade.
The nine-page report advises against charging duty, saying it would be harmful to the local industry and tourism.
It reads: ‘It is our strong belief that applying fuel duty at any level would have a negative impact on the level of boat ownership and usage and the number of visiting craft.
This would have a negative knock-on impact on the volume of fuel sales as well as on marine traders.
‘These negative impacts would far outweigh any financial benefits to the Treasury and there would also be associated compliance, safety and environmental issues to consider.
‘In order to diversify the economy and stimulate overall economic growth, Jersey should be taking advantage of any tax advantages and looking at ways of reducing costs and stimulating demand to further encourage and grow the marine leisure industry.’
