Hon Smith leading 13-member trade mission delegation to Asia
The mission, from May 20-30, 2024, aims to bolster the VI's position as a leading partner for facilitating cross-border trade and business in Asia.
According to the Government Information Service (GIS) on May 17, 2024, the VI stands at the forefront of international corporate structuring for cross-border transactions and investment worldwide, and is a go-to hub for Asian businesses. More than 60% of government revenues come from financial services, and since the establishment of the BVI business company four decades ago, over one million companies have been incorporated, with 57% originating from Asia.
Advancing Cross-Border Trade and Innovation
Sponsored by BVI Finance and its members, and supported by the BVI Hong Kong Office, the mission gathers senior government officials and private sector leaders from the financial services industry. They will meet with counterparts in Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Beijing, Shanghai, and Singapore to discuss the critical issues and innovative strategies shaping the future of financial services, both in the VI and across the Asian market.
The theme ‘Advancing Cross-Border Trade and Innovation’ will be explored through a series of roadshows, meetings and receptions. The agenda includes several high-level meetings, including with the Hong Kong Government’s financial secretary, the British Ambassador to China, the Hong Kong Monetary Authority, and the Monetary Authority of Singapore.
Private sector's support acknowledged
Commenting on the trade mission, Deputy Premier Smith said, “We are delighted to return to Asia with another delegation from the BVI, and we’re grateful to the private sector for their sponsorship and investment in resources to join our mission. The BVI is Asia’s conduit to facilitate cross-border trade and investment, and for more than 30 years we have enjoyed a friendship with the region.
"The BVI’s attributes, such as a familiar legal system based on English common law and internationally compliant regulations, and our reputation for cutting-edge financial services product design and agility, have ensured that we have remained a premier destination for business and investment across Asia. We are proud to be its international partner of choice.”
Elise Donovan, Chief Executive Officer of BVI Finance said, “BVI Finance is proud to play such a significant role in the Asia Trade Mission, bringing together the private sector to contribute expertise and insights that resonate with the Asian financial community. We will look to showcase BVI’s strengths and competitiveness, and reinforce our commitment to facilitating global growth, providing innovative corporate solutions, and remaining at the forefront of developing trends across the world. This has enabled the BVI to support the region’s growth over the last three decades. We look forward to further developing relationships and partnerships with the business community during this mission.”
Dr Ricardo Wheatley, Director of BVI Hong Kong Office also said, “The BVI’s Government Representative Office in Hong Kong is pleased to facilitate BVI’s Asia Trade Mission & Road Show in partnership with BVI Finance and the Ministry of Financial Services, Labour and Trade. The mission serves the dual purpose of reaffirming BVI’s commitment to Asia-Pacific markets and reinforcing our message to industry stakeholders in the region that the British Virgin Islands remains the premier Financial Jurisdiction for servicing their Offshore needs.”
Sponsors
The following businesses are sponsoring the Asia trade mission: ATU General Trust, Portcullis Group, ICS Corporate Services, Ogier, Maples Group, Appleby, Walkers, TMF Group, Bank of Asia, and Vistra.
28 Responses to “Hon Smith leading 13-member trade mission delegation to Asia”
Any unnecessary extras going for a free trip?
Is it because one of the besties on the trip as well?
A jolly to avoid the responsibility here at home.
Who are the 13 people going..and what is the justification for them going...we have a right to know please.
1/ who is going and the justification for them going
2/ how much it is costing in flights, hotels, additional pay
3/ who received the travel airlines for this.
In my business when staff travel all airmiles s go to the company account which we then use for future company travel
13 people how ?????
BVI House Asia could’ve assisted instead of wasting money tagging along the same set of employees.
That could have fixed 20 miles of our roads already.
Your deligation is too small bumeda took 40 last year
the people got the rid of VIP but PIP|NDP|PVIM could not form the Administration for the Good of the Country