Trade Ministry focused on reducing 'bureaucracy that exists' - Hon Lorna G. Smith


Speaking on the Virgin Islands Voice on April 30, 2025, Hon Smith said senior staff members of her ministry have met with representatives from various sectors in the VI to “discuss the issues” they have been having.
These people ranged from retailers to hoteliers, the boating sector and restaurant personnel, among others.
Hon Smith revealed that she was expecting to receive a report stemming from those meetings on May 1, 2025.
“Premier, you and I should be meeting with the departments of Immigration and Customs, which are yours, and the Trade Department, to discuss how we could reduce the bureaucracy that exists,” she added.
Trade Outreach Programme to begin this month
The ease of doing business in the VI and bureaucracy surrounding Trade here will also be addressed during the upcoming Trade Outreach Programme.
Hon Smith said this outreach programme will move to all districts in the Territory beginning May 21, 2025.
“Our objective is to have each district become more familiar with the happenings in the Trade Department.”
Hon Smith said discussions will focus on the National Business Bureau, grants programme, reducing bureaucracy in trade, the Consumer Protection Unit, just to name a few.


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