Premier Meets Marine Sector Amid USVI Row
Premier Natalio Wheatley met with local marine stakeholders as tensions rise with the US Virgin Islands over increased BVI maritime fees. The Premier’s Office says the government seeks an amicable resolution while protecting the territory’s environment and economy.
Premier Natalio Wheatley met with members of the local marine sector yesterday as the British Virgin Islands faces growing pushback from the neighbouring United States Virgin Islands over newly increased maritime fees for foreign vessels. In a statement issued by the Premier’s Office, the government reiterated its commitment to protecting and improving the territory’s environment and economy while signalling a desire for a peaceful resolution with its closest neighbours. "Our heart is also sure that neighbours can live in peace as we have for years, and we’re eager to bring the conversation between territories to a close with an amicable decision for all," the statement said.
The meeting follows strong criticism from USVI Governor Albert Bryan Jr., who, in his State of the Territory address earlier this week, described the BVI fee increases as "outrageous" and damaging to the USVI economy—particularly to the marine and charter yacht sector. Governor Bryan said his administration is exploring "every option, including working with our federal partners, to achieve parity," and warned the policy could create barriers to regional commerce.
Officials in Road Town did not announce immediate changes to the fee policy but used the meeting to hear concerns from marine operators and to discuss potential impacts on local businesses, jobs and the environment. The Premier’s Office emphasised that revenue measures are intended to support essential services and infrastructure, including road maintenance, while safeguarding the territory’s marine environment—an asset central to the BVI's tourism and charter industries.
For residents who depend on the charter and service-boat sectors, the dispute raises fears of booking cancellations, higher operating costs and reduced visitor numbers if reciprocal measures or federal involvement from the US side proceed. The Premier and local stakeholders stressed the importance of continued dialogue to avoid disruption to regional trade and tourism.
The USVI Governor is serving his second and final term, leaving questions about whether he or a successor will carry this dispute forward. For now, the BVI government says it will continue discussions with neighbours and industry representatives to seek a balanced outcome that protects local livelihoods and the territory’s environment while addressing revenue needs.
Officials have urged calm and patience as talks continue and said they will keep the public updated on any material developments.
Primary source: BVI News