Premier and Minister of Finance Dr. the Hon. Natalio Wheatley has declared his recent Asia Mission trip a success, highlighting key achievements in strengthening the British Virgin Islands’ relationship with the Greater China market and exploring new opportunities in Southeast Asia.
Speaking in the House of Assembly on Monday, February 24, Premier Wheatley outlined how the seven-day mission allowed the BVI to reinforce its presence in the region, engage in critical discussions with financial services stakeholders, and explore educational opportunities for BVI students in the Asia-Pacific region.
The delegation—which included Territorial At-Large Representative Hon. Lorna Smith and Eighth District Representative Hon. Marlon Penn—held industry roundtables and meetings with corporate service providers in Hong Kong. According to Premier Wheatley, these sessions provided valuable feedback on the financial services landscape as the industry navigates evolving global challenges.
The premier also revealed that the delegation held discussions with officials in Shenzhen, a major financial hub in China, where the BVI has approximately 2,000 businesses registered—collectively valued at $10 billion.
Beyond financial services, the premier addressed the BVI’s Asia Abroad Programme, which provides support for BVI students studying in Malaysia. He noted that the government is now looking to expand educational opportunities for students interested in studying across the Asia-Pacific region.
Premier Wheatley underscored that the Asia Mission was a strategic move to solidify the BVI’s standing in key financial markets and ensure that the territory remains a preferred jurisdiction for corporate services.