Minister Honourable Vincent O. Wheatley highlighted the importance of cervical cancer screening and early detection during Cervical Cancer Awareness Month. He urged women aged 21 to 65 to schedule regular screenings every 3-5 years. The Ministry of Health is promoting prevention, early detection, and education to combat cervical cancer. Dr. Arliene T. Penn, in partnership with Unite BVI, is offering free screenings until January 31. Cervical cancer is a leading cause of death for women globally, with higher mortality rates in Latin America and the Caribbean. The Ministry is committed to improving public health.
The Virgin Islands School of Technical Studies (VISTS) and Elmore Stoutt High School (ESHS) have advanced to the final round of the Inter-Secondary Schools Debate after winning their semi-final matches on February 26. VISTS defeated St. George’s Secondary School (SGSS) in the first semi-final, debating the moot "Year-Round Tourism: Is it Achievable and Sustainable?" VISTS argued in favor, presenting data on year-round tourism, while SGSS opposed, citing infrastructure concerns and the need for downtime. In the second semi-final, ESHS won against Bregado Flax Educational Centre (BFEC) on the moot "Mental Health Services Should Be Mandated in All Educational Institutions in the Virgin Islands." ESHS opposed the moot, arguing it would strain the education budget and citing existing services as sufficient, while BFEC argued for mandatory mental health support for students. Both teams received feedback from adjudicators and will compete in the final debate on March 12 for the title of Inter-Secondary Schools Debate Champion.
26th March 2026 VI Government Seeks Competitive Security Company The Government of the Virgin Islands is seeking professional service from a qualified and reputable security company to Supply Security Services for the Transportation of Government Funds from various revenue collection sites on Tortola, Virgin Gorda, Anegeda, and Jost Van Dyke for a period of two (2) years.
The Government of the Virgin Islands acknowledges the announcement that Bank of Asia BVI Limited has initiated the process of winding down its operations. In response, the Government affirms its support for all necessary regulatory procedures and emphasizes its continued confidence in the strength, stability, and integrity of the Territory’s financial services sector. For more details, the official press release can be found at the BVI Financial Services Commission website.
Author Mrs. Venoria Todman will launch her new book, Show and Tell Marriages, Living in Hell, on March 26 at Village Cay Marina. The book explores the emotional challenges in modern marriages. The Virgin Islands Department of Culture supports local authors and encourages the community to attend the event and engage with Mrs. Todman.
Deputy Governor of the Virgin Islands, Mr. David D. Archer, Jr. has announced the release of all his Year in Office reports since taking office in March 2018. The Deputy Governor made the announcement in a video address released today, 19th February.
As the international investigation into The Prince Group and connected entities continues, the relevant BVI competent authorities have been working to take all appropriate actions.
The Virgin Islands will implement the OECD’s updated Common Reporting Standard (CRS 2.0) effective 1st January 2026, requiring Financial Institutions to collect new data throughout 2026 and submit it to the International Tax Authority by May 2027. Key changes include expanded definitions to cover digital products, crypto-assets, and Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs), enhanced due diligence procedures, and clarified reporting requirements. These updates align with the Mutual Legal Assistance (Tax Matters) Act, Revised Edition 2020. The Virgin Islands has also committed to adopting the Crypto-Asset Reporting Framework (CARF) by 2028.
Premier Dr. Hon. Natalio D. Wheatley announced the publication of the UN Special Committee on Decolonization’s report following its visit to the British Virgin Islands in August 2024. The report assesses the Territory's decolonization progress and recommends implementing an education program on independence, establishing an independence timetable, engaging in talks with the UK, and considering a referendum on independence. The report will be debated in the House of Assembly and the government will host a public forum for views. The report is available on the Government’s website.
The British Virgin Islands has introduced revised Financial Sanctions Guidelines, effective from December 31, 2024. These guidelines provide comprehensive instructions for individuals, businesses, and financial institutions to comply with international sanctions. Key updates include asset freezing obligations, reporting requirements, and revisions to licensing procedures. The Virgin Islands Sanctions Unit oversees compliance and inquiries. A virtual session will be held to further guide stakeholders, and the updated guidelines are available on the FSC and FIA websites.