Basket of goods plan still in the works – Premier
Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley
Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley has shed more light on the government’s plans to introduce a “basket of goods” initiative aimed at easing the rising cost of living in the Virgin Islands.
The Premier said the initiative is still being developed and would be supported by partnerships with regional trading partners, especially the Dominican Republic.
“Just for clarity, [the basket of goods] just doesn’t speak to the Dominican Republic” Dr Wheatley explained at a recent press conference. “But we do see the Dominican Republic as a key partner in being able to assist us in sourcing goods at a cheaper price. And we’re working on a specific date right now.”
When asked about the status of the initiative’s implementation, Premier Wheatley said officials from the Ministry of Financial Services, Economic Development and Digital Transformation had already travelled to the Dominican Republic to attend a food festival and explore possible trade opportunities.
A memorandum of understanding between the Virgin Islands and the Dominican Republic is now being finalised and is expected to form the basis of the future trade relationship. “When that is complete, I’ll be travelling to the Dominican Republic to sign that document,” the Premier said, noting there may be another trade mission later.
The measure forms part of a wider economic strategy linked to the government’s phased minimum wage increase. “We want to work on… the basket of goods,” he said. “We’re also exploring the tax exemption being increased. So there are a number of things that we’re doing, and then we can re-evaluate and provide a further increase.”
He added that the government is taking a careful, phased approach to economic changes, as “one action impacts many other actions”, including potential business costs that could lead to job losses if not managed properly.
Junior Minister for Trade, Lorna Smith, confirmed the ministry is actively following up with local businesses that participated in the Dominican Republic engagement. She reported positive feedback so far.
“I’ve heard from one at least that there have been good leads in terms of suppliers, and that they have at least an additional option in terms of shippers directly between the Dominican Republic and the British Virgin Islands,” Smith said.
Premier Wheatley concluded that direct trade with the Dominican Republic could reduce costs by cutting out intermediaries. “Some of the products we use now come from the Dominican Republic, but just via Miami,” he stated. “So to establish a direct link… rather than things going to North America and then coming back to us” would benefit residents.
Copyright 2026 BVI News, Media Expressions Limited. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or distributed.
Mr. Premier don’t think you are going to deflect our Thoughts about your Basket of Goods talk. We are more concerned about our Bath-Tub with our 5 Mil.
Until you tell us the Truth about that, You can go take your to the market and try selling your goods.
Sorry but not sorry to say, the sight and words of this guy is alienating. What a n*****poop!
A modern political basket of goods, even though it will be snatched away by greedy business hoarders, would be a general “living” increase of at least 4-5 % in the wages scheme; and increase in Social Security Benefits and an increase in Pensioners monthly income.
Though the built in challenges of human greed will affect the recipients, it should alleviate some of the pain, suffering and financial depravations many segments of the population are experiencing.
Indeed, the depravations are real; the pains are agonizing. A basket of goods are needed and long over-due for the people.
But the least of those in need will never be looked after, though they have contributed their entire life’s share of work and contributions to the society and government
Who is the big boy supermarket man from the BVI who just opened his new supermarket in the Dominican Republic? Bit of a coincidence that we’re looking that way now … family and friends? Bank of Asia money? Seems like an oddly tidy bow, would you not agree Mr Premier?
There’s an old saying … “there’s no such thing as coincidence, only the the illusion of coincidence”
Dear Valued Client,
Thank you for your email. This message serves as an acknowledgment of receipt, and I want to assure you that your correspondence is important.
As part of an ongoing initiative to enhance the customer service experience, the Public Service is committed to providing timely and thorough responses, while upholding the values of transparency, accountability and excellence.
You can expect my initial engagement to your email within five (5) business days; and if necessary, a detailed response will be provided within ten (10) business days.
Please note that this timeframe does not guarantee that your matter will be fully resolved within that period, particularly if it is complex or requires inter-departmental coordination. However, if you do not receive a response within the stated timeframes, please follow up with my Department or Ministerial Head. If, after three (3) weeks, you have not received a comprehensive response, kindly contact [email protected], ensuring you include your original and any follow-up emails to assist with a prompt resolution.
We appreciate your patience and look forward to assisting you.
This must be a big basket as it has been in the works for the last six years of this administration.
Yes, that basket will be so huge,it will require a Backhoe to take it home. The Premier spends too much time talking instead of doing. Wait for it because it will take him another 6 months before he makes this same statement again. All the iniatives he speaks of will only be implemented shortly before the Election is called in the Virgin Islands (UK).