United States Virgin Islands Governor Albert Bryan Jr. (D) held a constructive meeting with British Virgin Islands Premier Natalio Wheatley to discuss critical issues impacting the shared maritime economy between the two territories. The meeting focused extensively on the BVI’s proposed fee structure changes for non-BVI-based charter operations and the potential implications for the marine industries in both the US Virgin Islands and the BVI.
During the discussion, Governor Bryan expressed his concerns regarding the proposed policy changes, which would significantly impact USVI-based charter operators who rely on access to BVI waters. The proposed fee increases and strict entry limitations would hamper USVI-based charter operations in the BVI, potentially forcing many businesses to cease operations, Byan’s office said. Governor Bryan underscored that the livelihoods of many Virgin Islanders depend on a thriving, mutually beneficial maritime industry that supports economic activity across both territories.
Governor Bryan reaffirmed the USVI’s commitment to ensuring fair and reciprocal policies that support the longstanding economic and cultural ties between the USVI and BVI. Premier Wheatley appreciated Governor Bryan’s concerns and pledged to work to address the shared concerns.
As a result of the meeting, Premier Wheatley signaled a willingness to adjust the proposed fees and increase the number of term charters allowed from the USVI to the BVI. As a result of the discussions, both leaders agreed to temporarily pause the implementation of the proposed changes while additional data is reviewed, and collaborative solutions are explored.
“Having these discussions is important. This is not just a Virgin Islands issue or a Greater Virgin Islands issue—it is a challenge being faced on an international scale,” said Governor Bryan. “As we navigate these political hurdles, communication is key. Coming here to the BVI to discuss the issue, understanding the various moving parts gives us a broader playing field to craft an agreement that makes sense for both our people and the industry. What we decided today is to examine the numbers and work together on a solution that benefits everyone.”
Premier Wheatley echoed the spirit of collaboration, emphasizing that while no firm conclusions were reached, the discussions set the foundation for an equitable agreement between both territories.
“Governor Bryan represented the interests of the US Virgin Islands robustly, and of course, I did the same on our side,” Premier Wheatley said. “But the important thing is that we were able to discuss common ground and areas of mutual cooperation. While we were not able to reach any firm conclusions today, we made a commitment to go back and crunch the numbers to ensure that we maintain equity, and we made a commitment to fairness in this relationship.”
The meeting underscored a commitment to cooperation, with both parties agreeing to work toward a regulatory framework that balances economic opportunities for charter vessels, water taxis, ferries, and fishing operators. Governor Bryan also reiterated the USVI’s intention to explore policy adjustments, including potential security fees for non-USVI residents entering and exiting USVI waters, as well as enhanced enforcement measures to ensure compliance with maritime regulations.
Governor Bryan and Premier Wheatley further discussed long-term strategies to facilitate seamless maritime operations between the territories, including the possibility of establishing customs pre-clearance facilities to streamline commercial and recreational maritime traffic.
Governor Bryan expressed optimism about the path forward, noting that today’s discussions marked a critical step toward achieving a sustainable and cooperative maritime policy.
“The Virgin Islands—both US and British—have long benefited from a shared maritime economy that fuels our prosperity,” said Governor Bryan. “By continuing to work together, we can develop policies that foster growth on both sides of the water, ensuring that our people and businesses continue to thrive.”
Likewise, Lieutenant Governor Tregenza Roach, echoed the sentiment of both Governor Bryan and Premier Wheatley noting the importance of the shared relationship between the BVI and the US Virgin Islands and the need to ensure equity.
“I look forward to a resolution of these issues, that will lead to an experience for our visitors and for their visitors to really be able to experience the beautiful Virgin islands that is not bifurcated by the fact that one is US and one is British, that these waters and these wonderful shows and pristine places that we get to inhabit, that others, with they visit the United States, Virgin Islands, or the British Virgin Islands can partake of. I look forward to us coming together again and resolving these issues.”
The Bryan-Roach Administration emphasized that it remains committed to ongoing dialogue and collaboration with the BVI government to ensure a strong, mutually beneficial maritime industry that supports economic growth and strengthens the region’s tourism sector.
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