The Department of Trade & Consumer Affairs functions as a one-stop business center, and as an interface between the business community and the government, focusing on both specific sector needs and areas for industry/trade development for economic growth.
The overall aim of the department is to increase competitiveness and scientific excellence of the local industries and business sector in order to generate higher levels of sustainable growth and productivity in a modern economy such as the BVI.
The department continues to reinvent itself and add value to the business sector in the BVI as the country develops into a vibrant and robust knowledge based economy. In this increasingly export-driven global economy, we will also focus on becoming the physical gateway between the US and Caribbean for international trade.
Mission
To facilitate the development and growth of the BVI businesses environment, by helping businesses to realize their full potential, through the establishment and management of programmes and networks that provide information, education, training, finance and other assistance, in order to foster sustained economic development in the BVI.
Vision
To increase the competitiveness of the business environment, in order to generate higher levels of sustainable growth and productivity in order to a vibrant and robust knowledge based economy.
Core Values
In keeping with our stated vision and mission, we have adopted the following core values for providing quality service to the community.
1. Courtesy- we are devoted to proving courteous and professional service at all times.
2. Confidentiality- we are devoted to maintaining the utmost privacy with all sensitive information.
3. Efficiency- we are devoted to providing efficient and timely service at all times.
4. Integrity- we are devoted to providing honest and reliable service at all times.
Units within the department
Consumer Affairs
The Consumer Affairs Unit is charged with the responsibility for dealing with consumer related matters. The unit advises consumers on their rights and responsibilities, monitors commercial activities to determine adverse trade practices while identifying issues affecting consumers, receives and investigates consumer complaints and conduct continuous field research into consumer needs/preferences as they relate to goods, services and prices.
National Business Bureau
The National Business Bureau (NBB) is a unit within the Department of Trade & Consumer Affairs that was established specifically for the development of the Micro, Small & Medium Sized Enterprises (MSME) sector. The Department of Trade & Consumer endeavors to create a nurturing business environment whereby a network of businesses, agencies and organizations can partner with the Government in order to revitalize and sustain economic growth.
Goals of the Bureau Programme supported by the Department of Trade & Consumer Affairs
- Business Growth & Job Creation
- Entrepreneurship Development & Training
- Advocacy for MSMEs
