TORTOLA, BVI – The government of the Virgin Islands is making considerable progress towards finalising the Virgin Islands National Tourism Policy (2026-2036), and the draft is now available for public review.
The Policy proposes a comprehensive framework for transforming the Territory’s tourism sector into a resilient, inclusive, and globally competitive pillar of sustainable development. It seeks to achieve a balanced tourism model, harmonising the benefits of mass tourism with the exclusivity and high-value potential of luxury and boutique tourism.
Premier and minister of finance and tourism, Dr Natalio D. Wheatley, in a statement delivered in the House of Assembly in January, said, “the National Tourism Policy represents a significant milestone in Government’s commitment to the tourism sector and provides a clear, modern framework to guide its growth and diversification.” He said the policy articulates government’s long-term commitment to strengthening tourism as a central pillar of the Virgin Islands’ economy, one that supports livelihoods, encourages investment, protects the Territory’s natural and cultural assets, and ensures that the benefits of tourism are more widely and sustainably shared across the various communities.
Premier Wheatley said the policy sets out clear objectives focused on improving governance and coordination across government, strengthening the overnight and marine tourism product, enhancing destination quality and resilience, and aligning tourism development with national sustainable-development goals.
Permanent secretary in the ministry of tourism, culture, and sustainable development, Joseph Smith-Abbott, has announced that The Virgin Islands National Tourism Policy (2026-2036), along with supporting documents, are now available on the government’s website. “We are delighted to be able to present these important documents to the public, and we anticipate your feedback as we seek to finalise the Policy. The formulation of the policy is grounded on extensive consultations with tourism stakeholders, who helped shape the future of the sector for years to come.”