Article
Premier Wheatley's Remarks at Tropical Shipping Disaster Management Workshop
I recognise the protocols already established. Good morning. I am pleased to join you for this very important Private-Public Sector Disaster Management Workshop, and I extend warm greetings on behalf of the Government and people of the Virgin Islands to all of you who are visiting with us. I also wish to acknowledge our hosts, Tropical Shipping, and collaborative partners – the BVI Department of Disaster Management (DDM), the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA), and the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA) - for bringing together this initiative for the benefit of the Virgin Islands and the wider Caribbean region.
Article
Asia Trade Mission & Strained Economic Relations Between BVI And USVI
The Premier of the British Virgin Islands (BVI) began by expressing condolences to those who have lost loved ones and emphasizing the government’s commitment to democratic accountability. He mentioned the recent trade mission to Asia, where the BVI delegation promoted the territory’s financial services in China and Malaysia. The trip reinforced the BVI’s reputation, and Malaysia’s newfound economic relations position the BVI to offer corporate structures to Malaysian clients. Financial services account for around 60% of BVI’s revenue and are crucial for funding public services. The Premier opposed calls for public registers of beneficial ownership from the UK Parliament, stressing the BVI’s capacity to regulate its own financial services. He then addressed recent tensions between the BVI and the US Virgin Islands (USVI), particularly in the marine sector, where the BVI’s fees have not kept up with the growing charter industry’s prosperity. The BVI government is modernizing its legislation to bring balance to the economic benefits from USVI-chartered vessels using BVI waters. The Premier emphasized the importance of dialogue and collaboration between the two territories. He proposed a meeting with Governor Bryan of the USVI to discuss the issue and explore further economic opportunities, particularly in tourism. He concluded by reaffirming the familial and economic ties between the BVI and USVI, expressing the desire for both sides to prosper together.
Article
RISA BVI & South Square Conference 2025– Jurisdiction Update
Honourable Lorna G. Smith, OBE, addressed the RISA BVI & South Square Conference highlighting the Virgin Islands’ ongoing efforts to address its placement on the FATF grey list by strengthening anti-money laundering measures and regulatory frameworks, with a goal to be removed within two years. She emphasized the importance of the financial services sector to the economy and the government’s support for diversification, particularly in fintech and emerging areas like climate finance. Smith reaffirmed the BVI’s commitment to good governance, innovation, and strong partnerships with the private sector and international regulators to ensure continued growth and resilience.
Article
United Kingdom Launches Register Your Presence for UK Nationals in Designated Middle East Countries
The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) is working around the clock to respond to escalations in the region and support those affected, including persons from the Virgin Islands who may be in the region. The UK has launched Register Your Presence for several countries: Bahrain, Israel, Kuwait, Palestine, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates. This allows the UK Government to share important updates directly with those in affected areas. This list is not exhaustive and will be kept under constant review.
Article
Safe Haven Transitional Centre Extends Support To Vulnerable Men On virgin Gorda
The Safe Haven Transitional Centre, with sponsorship from Mourant BVI, held an outreach initiative on April 4 to support vulnerable males in the Virgin Gorda community. The event provided Riteway Foods Market gift vouchers to those most in need. Coordinated with the Social Development Department, the initiative aimed to promote dignity, inclusion, and wellness. Director Mrs. Nellville George Bronstorph expressed gratitude for the support and emphasized the centre’s commitment to social change and community empowerment.
Article
Premier Wheatley Welcomes Guam’s Lt. Governor on a Courtesy Call
Premier, Honourable Dr. Natalio D. Wheatley, welcomed the Lieutenant Governor of Guam, Honourable Joshua “Josh” Franquez Tenorio, for a courtesy call in the Virgin Islands on Thursday, 4 December 2025. The Lieutenant Governor made a stopover as he attended a conference in the neighbouring United States Virgin Islands.
Article
Waste Management Invites Tenders for Fencing and Oil Containment Structure
The Department of Waste Management is seeking quotations for fencing and constructing an oil containment structure at the Old Derelict Vehicle Storage site in Sea Cows Bay, Tortola. The project includes installing 220 feet of 6-foot-high chain link fencing with galvanized metal posts, and a 16-foot-wide double gate. Bidders must independently assess the site and submit two sealed copies of their proposal, including a quotation, certificates of good standing, a valid 2025 trade license, equipment proof, and a summary of company experience. A mandatory site visit is scheduled for July 8 at 11:00 a.m., and submissions are due by 4:00 p.m. on July 17, 2025. Evaluation will be based on methodology (20 marks), timeframe (20 marks), and price (60 marks). Proposals must be hand-delivered to the Department’s office at the Union Property Building, Botanic Station. For inquiries, contact Director Marcus Solomon at 284-468-4934.
Article
House Speaker To Deliver Keynote At Women’s Leadership Conference
Speaker of the House of Assembly, Honourable Corine N. George-Massicote, has been invited to deliver the keynote address at the Caribbean Women’s Transformational Leadership Conference in Barbados on 18 June 2025. Hosted by CIWiL and partners, the event aims to empower women in leadership across the region. Speaker George-Massicote expressed her honour to represent the Virgin Islands and the CPA, emphasizing the importance of promoting gender equity and good governance. The public is encouraged to attend virtually by registering at ciwil.org/regional-womens-leadership-conference.
Article
VI CONTRACTERS TO ADHERE TO STRICTER COMPLIANCE AND STANDARDS
The Town and Country Planning Department will enforce stricter compliance with construction and development standards. Governor Daniel Pruce highlighted breaches of the Physical Planning Act 2004 in the Territory, often due to non-compliance with planning approvals and unauthorized alterations. To address these issues, the Department is prioritizing strengthening its legislative powers, proposing amendments to introduce civil penalties, fines, and other enforcement mechanisms. The goal is to ensure adherence to approved standards and promote sustainable development. The Ministry of Environment, Natural Resources, and Climate Change oversees environmental protection and climate change policies.
Article
Wrap It Up Campaign Launched in the Midst of Rising STI Cases
Residents of the Virgin Islands are encouraged to love responsibly, know their status, and protect their health as the Ministry of Health and Social Development continues to encourage safe sex with its Wrap it Up Re-Loaded Valentine’s campaign.