Premier: BVI ‘will not be bullied’ in USVI charter dispute

Premier Dr. Natalio Wheatley has made it clear that the BVI ‘will not be bullied’ amid growing tensions over economic policies affecting the marine sector.

He raised concerns about an economic imbalance favouring the US Virgin Islands (USVI) over the British Virgin Islands (BVI), particularly in the charter industry.

Speaking at a joint press conference with Deputy Premier Julian Fraser on Friday, February 28, Wheatley acknowledged the interdependence between the two territories but argued that the USVI benefits significantly from BVI waters.

“The USVI charter boat companies rely on the BVI for excursions, entertainment and natural attractions, however, there have been challenges over the years in regard to equity,” Wheatley stated.

While the BVI benefits from the USVI’s Cyril E. King International Airport as a transit hub for air and ferry travel, Dr Wheatley highlighted the disproportionate gains in the marine industry. He noted that the BVI currently collects an annual fee of $200 per vessel for the commercial vessel license, while the USVI charter industry contributes nearly $100 million to the USVI economy.

Review of legislation

In response, the Premier said his administration is reviewing the Commercial Recreational Vessel License Act, which governs the charter industry. The legislation has not been amended since 1992,.

“The legislation has not been updated or fees revised in 33 years to keep pace with the appropriate increases needed to meet government’ growing administrative costs nor have fees logically corresponded to the weekly charges for yacht charters which have dramatically risen based on strong demand for access to the BVI charters for many years,” Wheatley explained. “All I’m seeking is an appropriate balance.”

The issue escalated after USVI Governor Albert Bryan Jr. requested an emergency session with the USVI Legislature to discuss imposing a 25 percent tariff on imports from the BVI and introducing travel fees for non-residents crossing between the two territories. The Bryan administration has indicated its readiness to provide lawmakers with data and impact assessments to support the debate, urging the legislature to evaluate the potential impact on businesses, residents, and travelers.

Wheatley acknowledged the sudden escalation of the issue and said he has invited Governor Bryan to visit the BVI to discuss potential negotiations. However, he maintained that any actions taken to harm the BVI would inevitably affect the USVI as well.

“We’re not going to be bullied. I’ll say that to you. Those type of tactics will have no impact on my decisions whatsoever,” Dr Wheatley asserted.

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