Virgin Islands Premier and Minister of Finance, Hon Andrew A. Fahie (R1) has announced that the planned increase in port fees will not be implemented as scheduled for 2022. Photo: VINO/File

According to the Premier Andrew A. Fahie, the decision also comes in the wake of an extremely challenging fiscal year, for BVI and the rest of the world, brought about by the ongoing COVIID-19 pandemic. Photo: VINO/File

The decision, he said, was made after extensive consultations with port stakeholders, according to information from the BVI Ports Authority (BVIPA).

According to the Premier, the decision also comes in the wake of an extremely challenging fiscal year for the VI and the rest of the world, brought about by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

For 2022, pending fee increase included for Pilots License, Pilotage Exemptions, Stevedore, Ships Agent, Customs Broker, Freight Forwarder, General Services, Private Buoys Commercial, Private Buoys Non-Commercial, Cargo Charge, Running of Lines, Longshoring and Pilotage.

No implementation in 2022 

More proposed fees increase that were deferred for 2022 included Vehicles GVWR less than 4,000 lbs - $500/annum, Vehicles GVWR 14,001 to 26,000 lbs - $1000/annum, Vehicles GVWR over 26,000 lbs - $1000/annum and security Fee $1/ton of cargo, the BVIPA indicated.

According to information, the BVIPA since reopening in the late first quarter said the Ports have welcomed ferry passengers, cruise tourists, and have invested in significant infrastructure and technological upgrades to various port facilities to ensure that they meet the safety and security demands of the period; as well as enhance their operations in service to the people of the VI and all visitors.

“To successfully accomplish this, the management of the BVIPA has been consulting and collaborating with stakeholders, who have been credited with being instrumental in helping the Ports to achieve its developmental objectives during the pandemic,” it said.