USVI and BVI Strengthen Ties Through Collaborative Marine Industry Dialogue

April 15, 2025 — Charlotte Amalie, USVI – The Governor of the United States Virgin Islands (USVI), Albert Bryan Jr. welcomed a distinguished delegation from the British Virgin Islands (BVI) led by their Premier, Dr. Natalio D. Wheatley today for a strategic meeting aimed at deepening cross-border cooperation in the marine industry. The high-level discussions reflected a mutual commitment to economic growth, environmental stewardship, and regional partnership. In response to ongoing industry feedback and discussions with USVI officials, the BVI delegation introduced a newly adjusted charter fee structure. The revised framework offers flexible options for term charters, including limited and unlimited entry tiers and updated rates for day charters and water taxis. These changes reflect an openness to collaboration and a commitment to developing a fair and competitive regulatory environment for foreign-based vessels operating in BVI waters. Both parties emphasized the importance of maintaining a balanced and sustainable approach to regulation—one that fosters growth without placing undue burden on operators. The BVI shared its plans to modernize administrative procedures through the launch of a centralized digital platform to enhance the efficiency of licensing and permit issuance. The meeting also marked a renewed commitment to cultural and economic partnership through the revitalization of the BVI/USVI Friendship Day Initiative. Delegates discussed ways to enhance inter-agency coordination and improve maritime logistics, including the potential harmonization of digital systems to facilitate vessel entry and clearance. “This meeting reflects the strength of our relationship and our shared vision for a thriving, sustainable marine economy,” said Senator At Large Angel Bolques Jr. “We are committed to working together to ensure this is fair, effective, and mutually beneficial.” The territories agreed to continue technical consultations and policy discussions in the coming weeks, with a focus on achieving practical solutions that uphold the integrity of the region’s marine tourism sector of our greater Virgin Islands. U.S. Virgin Islands Attendees Included: Jean-Pierre Oriol – Commissioner, Department of Planning and Natural Resources (DPNR), USVI Nathalie Hodge – Commissioner, Department of Licensing and Consumer Affairs (DLCA), USVI Richard T. Evangelista, Esq. – Legal Counsel, Office of the Governor, USVI David A. Bornn – Legal Advisor, Office of the Governor, USVI Rachel Haverkorn – Director of Policy, Office of the Governor, USVI Senator Milton E. Potter – President, 36th Legislature of the Virgin Islands Senator Kenneth L. Gittens – 36th Legislature of the Virgin Islands Senator Avery L. Lewis – Secretary, 36th Legislature of the Virgin Islands Senator Novelle E. Francis, Jr. – 36th Legislature of the Virgin Islands Senator At Large Angel L. Bolques, Jr. – 36th Legislature of the Virgin Islands Carlton Dowe – Executive Director, Virgin Islands Port Authority (VIPA) Adrian Penn – Deputy Executive Director, VIPA Governor Albert Bryan Jr. – Governor, United States Virgin Islands Kevin Williams – Chief of Staff, Office of the Governor, USVI Richard Motta Jr. – Communications Director, Office of the Governor, USVI British Virgin Islands Delegation: Hon. Dr. Natalio D. Wheatley – Premier of the British Virgin Islands Hon. Julian Fraser, RA - Deputy Premier Mr. Jeremiah Frett - Financial Secretary Mr. Jeremy Vanterpool - Deputy Financial Secretary Mr. John Samuel, Managing Director, Virgin Islands Shipping and Maritime Authority Mr. Clinton Romney - Ag. Commissioner of HM Customs Mrs. Nadia Hodge - Ag. Chief Immigration Officer Ms. Karia Christopher - Ag. Director for Communications Mr. Kamal Lettsome - Production and Program Specialist Ms. Fiona Forbes - International Relations Counsel Mrs. Carolyn Stoutt-Igwe - Permanent Secretary, Premier's Office and Ms. Alyssa Soloman - Private Secretary to the Premier. Ms. Dwynel Davis – Ag. Director International Affairs Secretariat – Office of the Premier Sincere thanks are extended to Governor Albert Bryan Jr. and his administration, Premier, Dr. Natalio Wheatley and his administration, and our legislative colleagues and agency leaders for their invaluable participation and commitment to regional progress. ###