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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.
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Minister for Education Commends RiteWay for Championing Inclusive Employment
Minister for Education Honourable Sharie B. deCastro has praised RiteWay Food Markets for its ongoing partnership with the Eslyn Henley Richez Learning Centre (EHRLC) during the school’s 2025 Graduation Ceremony. The partnership, through the school’s apprenticeship programme launched in 2024, supports students with special needs by providing hands-on work experience. Two graduates have since been offered employment at RiteWay. The initiative highlights the ministry’s commitment to inclusive education and its broader vision for education transformation under the “Full STEAM Ahead” theme. Businesses are encouraged to follow RiteWay’s example and support inclusive workforce development.
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Ministry Of Health Monitoring Hand Foot And Mouth Disease Outbreak
The Ministry of Health and Social Development has reported twenty confirmed cases of Hand Foot and Mouth Disease (HFMD) in the Virgin Islands between February 12 and 27. Acting Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Ronald Georges, noted that the number may be underreported. The virus spreads through contact with infected saliva, nasal secretions, blister fluids, and fecal matter. To prevent further spread, the ministry advises frequent handwashing, disinfecting surfaces, avoiding close contact with infected individuals, and keeping infected people home until symptoms subside. The Environmental Health Division has inspected 85% of daycares and preschools for 2025. HFMD is generally mild, but proper hygiene is essential to reduce transmission.
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Empowering Future Leaders: Tomorrow’s Leaders Internship Programme Returns In 2025
BVI Finance, in partnership with the Ministry of Financial Services, Economic Development and Digital Transformation, is bringing back the Tomorrow’s Leaders Internship Programme for 2025. The program offers BVI students work experience in the financial services industry, aiming to develop future professionals. The internship runs from May to September 2025 and is open to local and international students studying in related fields such as accounting, banking, law, and marketing. Applications open from February 3rd to 28th, 2025. For more information, contact Shamahl A. Smith.
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Statement By Premier Hon. Dr. Natalio D Wheatley On The Virgin Islands’ Commitment To Combating Illicit Finance Following Meetings In The United Kingdom
As Premier of the Virgin Islands, I was pleased to visit London for a series of productive engagements with the United Kingdom Government, Members of Parliament, and fellow leaders of the Overseas Territories, focused on governance reform, the fight against illicit finance, and the shared priorities of the Territories.
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Book Clubs to be Launched on Tortola, Anegada and Virgin Gorda
Book Clubs to be Launched on Tortola, Anegada and Virgin Gorda (Activities as Part of Culture and Tourism Month) As part of the activities for Culture and Tourism Month, being celebrated under theme: "Rooted in Culture, Growing through Tourism," the Department of Culture in collaboration with the Public Library Service, will be introducing book clubs on Tortola, Anegada, and Virgin Gorda.
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Brian A. Davis appointed Director of the Department of Waste Management
Mr. Brian A. Davis has been appointed as Director of the Department of Waste Management effective 1st December 2025. Mr. Davis brings to the post more than twenty-five years of extensive technical, engineering, and senior management experience within the Virgin Islands Public Service. His career spans several key Government departments, including the Water and Sewerage Department, the Public Works Department, and the Ministry of Communications and Works.
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Premier Underscores Collaboration In Public Service At Mid-Year Review
Premier and Minister of Finance, Honourable Dr. Natalio D. Wheatley has underscored the importance of a strong, collaborative relationship between Ministers of Government, Permanent Secretaries and Heads of Department.
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Works Commence On Derelict Vessels Removal & Disposal In Sea Cows Bay Harbour
The Virgin Islands Recovery and Development Agency (RDA) is pleased to announce the commencement of works under the Derelict Vessels Removal & Disposal Project, which will see the extraction of 28 abandoned and deteriorated marine vessels from the Sea Cows Bay Harbour.
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Press Release-VI Government Signs Largest Contract in History for Paving of Nine (9) Miles of Road
The Government of the Virgin Islands signed what it said to be, its largest contract in history with Tortola Paving Company Limited to pave nine (9) miles of road from the Road Town Ferry Terminal to the West End Ferry Terminal. The contract was signed on Tuesday December 23 in the amount of fourteen million, eighty-eight thousand, six hundred and twenty dollars and two cents ($14,088,620.02).