BVI, Dominican Republic to Negotiate Food Pact
The BVI government has authorised formal talks with the Dominican Republic on a memorandum of understanding aimed at strengthening food security, trade and wider economic cooperation, Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley announced in his 2026 State of the Territory address. The move complements local investments in agriculture and fisheries, including grants to farmers and plans for new infrastructure such as a fish landing site, agriculture complex, abattoir and a farmers' reservoir.
Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley announced during his 2026 State of the Territory address that Cabinet has authorised the start of formal negotiations with the Dominican Republic on a memorandum of understanding focused on food security, trade and broader economic cooperation. "Government is also advancing regional cooperation to strengthen food security and economic resilience," Dr Wheatley said. "Cabinet recently approved the commencement of formal negotiations towards a memorandum of understanding with the Dominican Republic focused on food security, trade and broader economic cooperation." The Premier said the proposed agreement could help strengthen supply chains, improve market access and deepen a long-standing regional relationship.
For a territory that relies heavily on imports of agricultural produce, food products and construction materials from neighbouring countries, a formal arrangement with the Dominican Republic could reduce vulnerability to supply shocks and improve reliability for businesses and consumers.
Domestically, the government is also investing in measures to boost local production. Dr Wheatley noted that more than 30 farmers and fishers have already received direct assistance through government grant programmes aimed at supporting local businesses and strengthening domestic food production.
Planned projects include a fish landing site at the Omar Hodge Fisherman’s Wharf, an agriculture complex to improve collection, processing and marketing of local produce, a modern abattoir and a dedicated farmers' reservoir. "Food security is national security," Dr Wheatley said. "And building resilience means producing more of what we consume right here at home." Officials caution that authorising negotiations is an early step: an MOU has not yet been finalised or signed.
Practical issues to be addressed in talks will likely include customs and sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) requirements, transport and cold-chain logistics, pricing arrangements, and regulatory alignment that protects local producers while expanding market access. For BVI residents, the talks offer the potential for more stable food supplies and possibly lower costs if arrangements reduce intermediaries or ease direct imports of fresh produce.
They also underline the government's dual approach of strengthening external partnerships while investing in local agriculture and fisheries to build long-term resilience. Cabinet’s approval signals the start of formal discussions; residents can expect further updates from government as negotiations progress and specific projects move from planning into implementation.
Primary source: BVI News