The Minister of Agriculture, Forestry, and Rural Transformation in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Hon Israel R. Bruce, is leading a mission in the Virgin Islands aimed at rallying Vincentians living and working here. Photo: Facebook

The delegation is visiting the island as part of the relaunched SVG Diaspora Outreach and Investment Project, under the theme, “Home Is Where The Heart Is.” The Virgin Islands have been newly added to the schedule due to popular demand. Photo: Facebook

During an interview with JTV Channel 55 at the Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport on Beef Island on Wednesday, April 19, 2026, Hon Bruce stated that the new governing party in St Vincent and the Grenadines, led by Hon Godwin E.L. Friday, recognises the importance of creating an enabling environment for investment. 

Relaunch of programme

The delegation is visiting the island as part of the relaunched SVG Diaspora Outreach and Investment Project, under the theme,  “Home Is Where The Heart Is.” The Virgin Islands have been newly added to the schedule due to popular demand.

This initiative is designed to encourage Foreign Direct Investment from Vincentians living abroad and will be carried out through a series of conferences in four key locations known for their high concentration of Vincentian nationals.

'Corridor between SVG & VI presents opportunities'

According to Hon Bruce, the corridor between St Vincent and the Grenadines and the Virgin Islands presents significant opportunities. 

He explained, “Vincentians who work hard, have saved a lot and are wondering how they can invest at home. This mission will address that fundamental question and give them an opportunity to.”

He further emphasised the many investment opportunities in the agricultural sector between the two islands.  

Over the next few days, the delegation will explore ways to create collaboration that will allow Vincentian agricultural products to be available on the shelves of supermarkets in the Virgin Islands. 

Hon Burce stated, ”We are here as part of a mission to nip that, and to ensure that Vincentian food is on your shelf. So we're making sure not only do Vincentians get to eat the things that they're accustomed to or were accustomed to eating at home, but to give the people of the Virgin Islands a great savour of those Vincentian foods.” 

Engagement with officials 

This Outreach and Investment Programme serves as a crucial gateway for members of the diaspora to engage directly with senior government officials, financial institutions, and private sector representatives, who can provide insights into nation-building opportunities within Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.

Over the years, the Virgin Islands (VI) and St Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) have maintained strong cooperative ties, rooted in shared Caribbean identity and regional integration through the OECS, where SVG is a full member and the VI an associate member.

The Discussion forum will be held on Saturday, May 2, 2026, at Treasure Isle Hotel.