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Public Service Debt Report for the Second Quarter of 2025
The Government of the Virgin Islands (GoVI) currently holds fifteen standard loans with four creditors: three domestic (CIBC Caribbean, Republic Bank, and the Social Security Board) and one external (Caribbean Development Bank). Domestic debt totals $71.77 million (47.1% of total debt), while external debt with CDB accounts for $80.49 million (52.9%). Most of the debt (79.2%, or $120.62 million) carries floating interest rates, primarily with SSB, CIBC, and CDB, while the remaining 20.8% ($31.64 million) is fixed-rate debt held across all creditors.
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VI Government To Transform Electric Power Infrastructure
Premier Dr. Natalio Wheatley reaffirmed the Virgin Islands’ commitment to sustainable energy at the CARILEC 2025 Symposium and Lineworkers Rodeo, highlighting the near-completion of a solar project that will power Anegada with 90% solar energy. He noted government incentives for solar adoption and local training initiatives. Minister Kye Rymer emphasized the importance of resilient energy infrastructure for sustainable development. The event, themed “Informed. Empowered. Safe.”, included expert discussions, safety training, and a rodeo competition, with Antigua Public Utilities Authority winning and Team BVIEC earning five awards.
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Regional Coastguard Crews Boost Skills With UK’s Royal National Lifeboat Institution
Rescuers from Virgin Islands Search and Rescue (VISAR) participated in a two-week training program with maritime protection crews from Anguilla, Bermuda, the Cayman Islands, Montserrat, and Turks and Caicos Islands. The training, held from January 13-24, focused on enhancing search-and-rescue capabilities and included theory, tabletop, and practical elements. Delivered by RNLI trainers in partnership with HM Coastguard, the program aimed to train participants to teach colleagues in their territories. The Governor of the Virgin Islands, Mr. Daniel Pruce, observed a simulated rescue operation and praised the course for ensuring international standards in rescue operations. The RNLI's international efforts help organizations improve lifesaving capabilities globally.
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Trade Department Celebrates Local Entrepreneurs at MSME Grant Distribution Ceremony
The Department of Trade, Investment Promotion and Consumer Affairs today hosted its second Micro, Small and Medium Enterprise (MSME) Grant Distribution Ceremony, and awarded grants to a new and diverse group of entrepreneurs, many of whom operate within the agricultural sector. This year’s cohort reflects the diversification of the Territory’s business community and serves as reassurance to small businesses of the growing ecosystem and support being fostered by the Department of Trade.
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Government Approves Demerit Point System for Taxi and Livery Drivers
The Ministry of Communication and Works has approved the implementation of a Demerit Point System for drivers of taxi and livery motor vehicles. The approval was granted pursuant to Regulations 8(1) and 8(3) of the Road Traffic (Taxi and Livery Commission) Regulations, 1997, as amended and authorises the Commission to enforce the Demerit Point System with immediate effect.
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Press Briefing/Lunch and Learn Session - Government Response to the Global Fuel Crisis and Associated Rising Cost of Living
Ministerial Colleagues, Financial Secretary Mr. Jeremiah Frett, other senior public officers and heads of departments, members of the media, ladies and gentlemen, good afternoon. Last Friday, 17 April, 2026, I announced a suite of measures that my Government will be implementing for an initial three-month period to help members of the public cope with the impacts of the conflict in the Middle East on the price of fuel, shipping costs and the cost of goods and services.
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Ministry of Health Strengthening Asthma Care With Utilization Review
The Ministry of Health and Social Development is strengthening the delivery of asthma care with the implementation of a Medication Utilization Review.
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Cabinet Approves 2026 Public Holidays
The Office of the Deputy Governor advises that Cabinet has approved the following public holidays for 2026, acting in accordance with Section 5 of the Public Holidays Act (Cap 199), as amended.
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HLSCC Fall Convocation 2025 Speech By Honourable Sharie de Castro
Board of Governors, President Georges, faculty, staff and students, good afternoon. Standing here today as both Minister for Education and a proud alumna of H. Lavity Stoutt Community College, I am humbled.
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BVI And U.S.V.I Strengthen Maritime Collaboration Through Continued Dialogue On Charter Vessel Fees
On April 15, 2025, the British Virgin Islands (BVI) and U.S. Virgin Islands (USVI) held a successful diplomatic meeting in St. Thomas to strengthen maritime collaboration. Leaders from both territories agreed on a revised charter vessel fee structure and committed to forming a joint marine task force to improve regional policy, port efficiency, and coastal protection. The BVI is advancing legislation to modernize its maritime sector through amendments to the Commercial Recreational Vessel Licensing Act. The updated charter fees reflect regional cooperation and industry feedback, supporting a sustainable and prosperous charter tourism industry.