The Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court (ECSC) is marking the commencement of the New Law Year with a Ceremonial Opening under the theme, “Accessibility and Awareness - The ECSC Bridging the Gap Through Community Engagement.” The event, hosted by Saint Lucia, includes a church service at the Road Town Methodist Church in Tortola and a Special Sitting at the High Court in Tortola. The Acting Chief Justice, Mr. Mario Michel, will deliver the feature address live from Saint Lucia. The event will be streamed live across various platforms. The ECSC, established in 1967, serves the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) and has unlimited jurisdiction in its Member States and Territories. For more information, visit the ECSC website or call 758-457-3600.
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.
The British Virgin Islands Tourist Board & Film Commission (BVITBFC) launched its summer marketing campaign in Puerto Rico with a BVI Full Moon Party on April 12 at Vivo Beach Club, Carolina. The event attracted over 800 guests and featured cultural performances, BVI-inspired cuisine, and travel raffles, promoting the BVI as an ideal summer destination. Premier Dr. Natalio D. Wheatley highlighted the BVI’s hospitality and invited attendees to future events, including “Xmas in July” in Virgin Gorda. The campaign aims to boost tourism from Puerto Rico, emphasizing the BVI’s unique offerings and global travel accolades.
The Cabinet Office is notifying the public that the first two Acts of 2026 have been published for public review.
Crime in the Virgin Islands has risen by 13 percent over the past year, based on a comparison of the period from January to July, according to Acting Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Mr. Kenrick Davis, who confirmed that gun violence remains a major concern, but domestic violence is the leading contributor to the overall increase in reported crimes.
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.
The National Security Council (NSC) is inviting youth of all ages, youth groups and organisations, parents, guardians and the general public to the Virgin Islands Anti-Crime Summit 2025 Launch and Youth Rally on Friday, August 15.
Q3 2025 Debt Update At the end of the third quarter of 2025, the public sector debt of the Government of the Virgin Islands stood at $145.95 million, reflecting a steady decline compared to previous quarters and years. This reduction—driven by ongoing debt servicing—marks an 18.7% decrease since September 2023, with no new disbursements recorded during the quarter.
The Government of the Virgin Islands invites tenders for road rehabilitation works at Prospect Reef, Tortola. The project includes demolition, excavation, site clearance, and the construction of concrete culverts, drainage, and pavement improvements. Tender documents are available upon request via email to procurement@gov.vg with the subject “Prospect Reef Road Rehabilitation.” A virtual pre-tender meeting will be held on Thursday, 4th December 2025 at 10:00 a.m. (local time). Tenders must be submitted by 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, 20th January 2026. Late submissions will not be considered. Tenders will be publicly opened at 11:00 a.m. on the same day via WebEx. For full details, contact the Procurement Unit at (284) 468-4245 or email procurement@gov.vg.
Everyone is invited to the upcoming Anti-Crime Summit to be held 24th-26th September. It's a call to action! His Excellency the Governor and the Honourable Premier are leading the charge in the fight against crime in the Virgin Islands.