The trade delegation was formally welcomed by Junior Minister for Trade and Economic Development Hon Lorna G. Smith (AL), OBE, (centre, with orange shirt) who attended on behalf of the Government of the Virgin Islands. Photo: BVICC

The Junior Minister for Trade and Economic Development, Honourable Lorna G. Smith (AL) OBE, greeted the visiting businesses, encouraged them to experience the island, and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to facilitating regional trade, partnership development, and stronger Caribbean economic collaboration. Photo: BVICC

The mission resulted in several promising commercial discussions between visiting companies and BVI businesses, including the exchange of product samples, exploration of distribution opportunities, and the establishment of new regional business contacts. Photo: BVICC

The mission resulted in several promising commercial discussions between visiting companies and BVI businesses, including the exchange of product samples, exploration of distribution opportunities, and the establishment of new regional business contacts. Photo: BVICC

Chairman of the Board of Directors of the BVI Chamber of Commerce Sinclair H. Flemming Jr, left, and Past Chairman Shaina M. Smith-Archer. Photo: BVICC

The visit, according to BVICC, created a valuable platform for strengthening commercial relationships and advancing intra-Caribbean trade collaboration.

The delegation was formally welcomed by Junior Minister for Trade and Economic Development Hon Lorna G. Smith (AL), OBE, who attended on behalf of the Government of the Virgin Islands. Honourable Smith greeted the visiting businesses, encouraged them to experience the island, and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to facilitating regional trade, partnership development, and stronger Caribbean economic collaboration.

This engagement was organised in collaboration with the Board of Directors of the BVI Chamber of Commerce, led by Chairman Sinclair H. Flemming Jr, who has been actively advancing initiatives aimed at strengthening regional business connectivity and expanding opportunities for Virgin Islands enterprises.

‘Meaningful dialogue’

The delegation participated in a networking and engagement session held at Cyril B. Romney Tortola Pier Park, where local stakeholders, government representatives, and private sector leaders gathered to welcome the visiting businesses and explore potential opportunities for cooperation.

BVICC, in a press release, said the event was designed to facilitate meaningful dialogue between Caribbean enterprises and the Virgin Islands business community.

Several visiting companies were able to engage directly with local businesses through structured introductions and follow-up visits across Tortola. These engagements resulted in productive business conversations, product sampling, exchange of contacts, and early-stage commercial discussions, laying the groundwork for future partnerships and potential trade agreements.

The programme featured remarks from Lincoln Bob and Leroy James of the Department of Trade and Mr Dirk Walters of the BVI Tourist Board.

The mission resulted in several promising commercial discussions between visiting companies and BVI businesses, including the exchange of product samples, exploration of distribution opportunities, and the establishment of new regional business contacts.

According to BVICC, these early engagements are expected to develop into follow-up meetings and potential trade relationships across the Caribbean.