The Premier of the Virgin Islands welcomed attendees to a roundtable with BVI financial services firms in Hong Kong. He emphasized the importance of Hong Kong and Mainland China to BVI's financial industry, highlighting the BVI Government's commitment to maintaining relationships and ensuring the industry’s growth. The Premier discussed recent regulatory changes, the need for collaboration, and BVI’s adherence to international standards. He reaffirmed the government’s dedication to protecting the financial services industry’s viability and safeguarding clients’ security, ensuring compliance with global regulations. He expressed optimism about BVI retaining its position as Greater China’s preferred offshore financial jurisdiction by the end of 2025.
The Premier of the Virgin Islands welcomed financial services representatives in Hong Kong, emphasizing the importance of Hong Kong and Mainland China to BVI’s financial industry. He highlighted BVI’s ongoing engagement with regulatory changes and its commitment to maintaining high international standards. The Premier outlined the political approach to the financial services industry, stressing its economic importance and adherence to international regulations. He affirmed BVI’s dedication to protecting the industry’s integrity, safeguarding clients’ security, and dispelling any misrepresentations. The Premier expressed optimism that BVI would retain its position as Greater China’s preferred offshore finance jurisdiction by the end of 2025.
Minister Vincent O. Wheatley officially opened Senior Citizen’s Month 2025, celebrating the theme “Flip the Script on Aging”. He urged the public to embrace aging as a time of wisdom and value, not decline. He honoured the Territory’s eight centenarians and praised seniors for their contributions to society. Key announcements included an increase in the centenarian grant (from $5,000 to $10,000) and a raise in monthly public assistance grants for seniors to $506.25. The month will feature activities to celebrate and engage seniors, promote intergenerational unity, and challenge ageism. Minister Wheatley expressed deep gratitude to caregivers, families, and partners supporting the elderly, calling for continued respect, support, and recognition of seniors across the Virgin Islands.
The Virgin Islands proudly hosts the 2025 CARILEC Line Workers Rodeo, Symposium, and Field Safety Training for the first time, under the theme “Informed. Empowered. Safe.” This event honors the vital work of line workers across the Caribbean and promotes learning, safety, and collaboration in the energy sector. It features competitions, knowledge-sharing, and hands-on training to enhance field safety and operations. The Virgin Islands Government reaffirms its commitment to building a resilient and sustainable energy infrastructure. Special recognition was given to the local team and General Manager Dr. Neil Smith. Let the games begin!
Today marks another meaningful step in our Government’s commitment to building a stronger, more resilient, and more culturally vibrant Virgin Islands. We are here to formalise the engagement of design consultants for two important projects - each different in purpose, but both deeply connected to our vision for a modern, sustainable, and forward‑looking Territory.
The Ministry of Communications and Works has reached an agreement with the Chalwell family regarding the installation of a fence in Hodge’s Creek, allowing road work to continue. The project will include rehabilitating sidewalks and installing new drainage systems. The Ministry will collaborate with the Chalwell family and other stakeholders to ensure the project progresses smoothly and benefits the community. The Government remains committed to developing and maintaining public infrastructure to improve the quality of life for residents and visitors.
The Environmental Health Division will be conducting fogging exercises on Tuesday, September 2 beginning at 5:30 p.m. and continuing on Wednesday, September 3 at 5:30 p.m. on the island of Anegada.
The Director of the Agriculture and Fisheries Department wishes to thank everyone for their support of the 2026 Agriculture and Fisheries Exhibition and Market, held 10-12 April.
The Ministry of Health and Social Development is encouraging the community to focus on oral health in observance of World Oral Health Day. This year's theme, "A Happy Mouth is a Happy Mind," emphasizes the connection between oral health and overall well-being. Poor oral health can lead to serious conditions like heart disease and diabetes, while also causing pain, discomfort, and social anxiety. The Ministry advises maintaining good oral hygiene, limiting sugar intake, and visiting the dentist regularly to prevent oral diseases.
The Water and Sewerage Department has launched an online payment portal, allowing customers to pay their bills conveniently. Announced by Minister Kye M. Rymer, the portal offers 24/7 access, dual payment options, and secure account management. Customers can register starting February 1 and are encouraged to provide an email address for billing updates. The project was supported by several stakeholders, including the Department of Information Technology, Banco Popular, and Smarter Commerce. The portal is part of the government's effort to modernize public services and improve utility payment processes.