The strength of the economy of the Virgin Islands remains solid, Junior Minister for Financial Services and Economic Development, Honourable Lorna G. Smith, OBE, (AL) has said. Photo: Facebook

In light of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, Junior Minister for Financial Services and Economic Development, Honourable Lorna G. Smith, OBE (AL) affirmed that it has not negatively affected the Virgin Islands’ economy. Photo: Internet Source

She made this comment during the Virgin Islands Voice program, which aired on March 25, 2026. 

Toursim main driver of economy

The Junior Minister stated that tourism is the main driver of the Virgin Islands' economy.

“We know that our economy is based on the twin pillars of tourism and financial services. We see every day, in fact, even now, we see three ships in our harbour every day, our overnight tourists continue to come, and the number of flights coming into the airport continues to increase, and that side of it, tourism continues to be very solid.”

Hon Smith further reported that financial services and new incorporations grew by 9% between last year and this year. 

VI economy not negatively impacted 

In light of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, she affirmed that it has not negatively affected the Virgin Islands’ economy. However, she expressed hope for a quick resolution. 

“With the conflict in the Middle East, between the United States, the Israelis, and the Iranian, it does cause some pause, but we certainly hope that it is going to be a short conflict but right now, the economy of the British Virgin Islands has not been negatively impacted.”