Senator Bolques Highlights Economic Disparities in Maritime Sector Trade Between the Virgin Islands and the British Virgin Islands

St. Thomas & St. John District, U.S. Virgin Islands – Senator At-Large Angel Bolques Jr. is calling for urgent discussions on the economic disparities affecting the maritime industries of the Virgin Islands and the British Virgin Islands (BVI). With ongoing concerns about trade imbalances, regulatory inconsistencies, and the financial impact on local businesses, Senator Bolques stresses the need for policies that promote fair and equitable economic opportunities for U.S. Virgin Islanders. “For far too long, Virgin Islands maritime stakeholders have faced competitive disadvantages due to uneven regulatory practices and policies that do not favor our local maritime sector,” said Senator Bolques. “It is essential that we address these disparities to ensure that our economy remains competitive, sustainable, and beneficial to the people we serve.” Senator Bolques is concerned about the economic disparities of cross-border marine travel and trade and the financial burden of that process and its local industries. He emphasizes the importance of strengthening the maritime sector through strategic policies and regulations that protect Virgin Islands businesses while maintaining healthy regional cooperation with the British Virgin Islands. “The maritime industry is vital to our economy, supporting jobs, commerce, and tourism,” Bolques added. “We must take a proactive approach in addressing these issues to ensure that Virgin Islands businesses can compete on a level playing field with the British Virgin Islands.” Senator Bolques is committed to engaging maritime business leaders in the BVI and USVI, industry stakeholders, and policymakers to explore solutions to foster economic growth and stability in the marine sector across the Virgin Islands and the British Virgin Islands. 

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