The Government of the Virgin Islands is advancing plans to establish a representative presence in Panama, Premier and Minister of Finance Dr the Honourable Natalio D. Wheatley (R7) has announced. Photo: facts.net

Premier and Minister of Finance Dr the Honourable Natalio D. Wheatley (R7) during his State of the Territory Address at Noel Lloyd Positive Action Movement Park on June 9, 2026. Photo: VINO

During his State of the Territory Address at Noel Lloyd Positive Action Movement Park on June 9, 2026, Premier Wheatley said protection of the territory's financial services industry also means representation.

He said this is why the Government significantly increased international engagement and strategic advocacy throughout Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Macau, London, Panama, Argentina, Brazil and Uruguay, while opening new engagement channels in Malaysia and across the European Union.

"And I am pleased to report that Government is advancing plans to establish a BVI representative presence in Panama, strengthening access to one of Latin America’s most important financial and business gateways."

Premier Wheatley also said the Government is operationalising the Financial Services Directorate, strengthening policy coordination, international engagement and strategic representation for the sector.

"At the same time, the Business Done RIGHT Campaign continues promoting compliance, integrity and confidence in the Virgin Islands financial services sector," the Premier added.