Government eyes trade mission to India

The government is exploring a possible trade mission to India as part of its broader effort to diversify international partnerships and strengthen trade ties beyond traditional markets, Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley has said.

The move comes amid ongoing discussions with several countries in the Caribbean and Asia, including trips to the Dominican Republic and planned engagements in St Maarten and Jamaica.

“We are seeking different trade routes, different supply markets, and seeing what areas that we can cooperate in, in the best interest of the people of the Virgin Islands,” Dr Wheatley stated.

While the Premier did not provide a confirmed date for the India mission, he pointed to the territory’s recent trade-focused engagements as a model. “We’ll soon be conducting a trade mission to India by diversifying the markets that we serve,” he said.

Dr Wheatley also praised ongoing collaboration with Jamaica, noting the appointment of an honorary consul in the BVI as a sign of deepening bilateral ties. “It signals strengthened relations between the government of Jamaica and the government of the Virgin Islands,” he explained.

The Premier highlighted Jamaica’s expertise in tourism, culture, and port operations as areas that could provide valuable lessons and trade opportunities for the BVI. “Through strengthened relations with Jamaica, we too can see some level of benefit,” Dr Wheatley said.