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TRC Participates in CANTO 2025 in The Bahamas
The Telecommunications Regulatory Commission (Commission) is pleased to share that it participated in the 40th Annual CANTO Conference and Trade Exhibition, held from July 12 to 17, 2025, in Nassau, The Bahamas.
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17 Achievements in Infrastructure Outlined in 2025 Territorial Address
Premier and Minister of Finance Honourable Dr. Natalio Wheatley has reported significant progress across various sectors in 2024, highlighting achievements that support a stronger and more sustainable Virgin Islands. Delivering his 2025 Territorial Address under the theme “Planning, Priorities and Progress (2024) and Laying the Blocks of Success (2025) Building a Sustainable Nation,” Premier Wheatley cited road repairs, water and sewage upgrades, the launch of a payment portal, electrical infrastructure improvements, and legislative advancements, including steps toward expanding the Terrence B. Lettsome International Airport. He described 2024 as a year marked by resilience and innovation, with efforts aligning with the National Sustainable Development Plan’s six goals: Economy, Infrastructure, Health and Wellness, Education and Learning, Environment, and Good Governance & Leadership. The full address is available on the Government’s website and Facebook page, and residents are encouraged to participate in a public satisfaction survey.
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Zero Percent Customs Duty on Renewable and Energy Efficient Products
Minister for Communication and Works Honourable Kye M. Rymer has announced that the Cabinet of the Virgin Islands has approved zero customs duty for renewable energy and energy efficient products beginning September 1.
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Department of Culture Endorses New Health Resource to Combat NCDs in the Virgin Islands
The Department of Culture has announced its support of a new book to be launched here on 30th April: “Healing the Caribbean: A Comprehensive Guide to Understanding and Preventing Noncommunicable Diseases.”
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Two Bids Received For West End Ferry Terminal Project
Two bids were received by the Recovery and Development Agency (RDA) for the West End Ferry Terminal Project by the extended deadline of January 17, 2025. One bid was from a joint venture of two local firms, and the other from a Canadian firm. The technical submissions will be evaluated by the project’s design consultant, Inros Lackner SE, with results expected by February 2025. The project is funded by the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) and aims to improve infrastructure and enhance connectivity. The West End Ferry Terminal is crucial for sea travel to and from Tortola, Jost Van Dyke, and the USVI.
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HM Prisons Hosts Second Annual Inmate Debate on ‘Rehabilitation and Change’
Inmates at His Majesty’s Prison participated in the second annual Inmate Debate focused on how positive prison experiences can impact society. Two teams presented arguments, with Team Two winning a $500 prize. The event, supported by the New Life Baptist Church, aimed to encourage rehabilitation and personal growth. Officials, including Deputy Superintendent Raymond Grant and Acting Principal Officer Jazell Forde-Johnny, highlighted the importance of mindset changes and personal development. Deputy Governor David Archer Jr. also awarded participants a signed copy of his book. The prison is enhancing its rehabilitation efforts by employing a full-time Counsellor, Rehabilitation Officer, and Teacher, supported by the Ministry of Health and Social Development.
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69 Registered as British Citizens
Sixty-nine individuals have officially become British Citizens after previously being Naturalised as British Overseas Territories Citizens. The new citizens took the Oath of Allegiance to His Majesty the King and the Pledge of Loyalty to the United Kingdom during a ceremony held on May 6 at Government House. His Excellency Governor Daniel Pruce and Registrar General Mrs. Tashi O’Flaherty-Maduro offered congratulations, highlighting the strong historical, legal, and cultural ties between the Virgin Islands and the UK. Mrs. O’Flaherty-Maduro emphasized that citizenship is a meaningful personal journey that reflects a commitment to democratic values and societal integration. This registration follows provisions of the British Nationality Act, allowing eligible individuals to apply for British Citizenship.
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Scheduled CAPS Migration & Temporary Manual Declaration Process
The Customs Automated Processing System (CAPS) will undergo a scheduled migration beginning Friday, 21st November 2025 at 4:30 PM. During this period, the system will be offline and unavailable to importers and brokers, with access expected to resume on Monday, 24th November 2025 once works and testing are completed. In the meantime, all Trader Declarations (TDs) must be submitted manually using the HMC‑12‑2024 Version 2 Form. Please note that the current CAPS submission link (https://www.bvicaps.gov.vg/CAPSWeb/Login.jsp) will be discontinued from Friday, 21st November 2025. The new link (https://caps.gov.vg/CAPSWeb/TraderLogin.jsp) will serve as the official platform for all future declaration submissions.
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RDA Strengthens Contractor & Industry Standards With Code Of Conduct And Grievance Redress Workshop
The Virgin Islands Recovery and Development Agency (RDA) has successfully hosted its first Contractor Orientation Session on the Code of Conduct for Contractors and Workers, alongside its Grievance Redress System (GRS), aimed at strengthening standards, accountability, and responsible project delivery across its portfolio.
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Government Enacts Public Procurement (Amendment) Regulations, 2025
The Government of the Virgin Islands has enacted the Public Procurement (Amendment) Regulations, 2025, to improve accountability and transparency in government contract awards. The amendments, gazetted on January 30, 2025, streamline procurement procedures and introduce clear guidelines for awarding contracts. Contracts valued at $25,000 or less will require requests for quotations, while those exceeding $25,000 will follow open or restricted tendering procedures. The amendments also allow restricted tenders for domestic suppliers for contracts up to $250,000. The regulations aim to modernize the procurement process, enhance efficiency, and provide more opportunities for local businesses.