Gov’t to host stakeholder meeting on marine industry developments

The government is set to engage stakeholders in the marine industry on upcoming developments, particularly in light of the proposed fee increases for the charter yacht sector.

This meeting comes ahead of a second round of negotiations between Premier and Minister Dr. Natalio Wheatley and US Virgin Islands Governor Albert Bryan Jr.

The two leaders initially met last month and agreed to revisit the proposed fee increases before reconvening this month. At that time, Premier Wheatley assured that he would not present the bill to the House of Assembly until an agreement was reached with the USVI Governor.

According to local reports, the proposed legislation includes a substantial increase in annual fees, raising costs for overnight charter operators from $400 to $24,000 and for day sail operators from $200 to $12,500.

The Ministry of Finance will host the stakeholder meeting on April 8 at 5 pm at Maria’s by the Sea. Maritime industry professionals and stakeholders are invited to participate in discussions regarding the upcoming Marine Industry Bill amendments.

As Minister responsible for Maritime Administration and Shipping, Premier Wheatley emphasized that the meeting aims to ensure industry members—who will be directly impacted—are included in the discussion, understand the legislative process, and have an opportunity to provide input.