USVI charter operators must pay fair fees; 1992 rates unacceptable- Premier
The Premier’s remarks came during a press conference on February 28, 2025, where he reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to ensuring that the Virgin Islands (VI) receives fair compensation for the use of its natural resources.
"These are natural resources. This is like our gold or our oil," Premier Wheatley declared, as he highlighted the need for increased fees on USVI-based charter operators who benefit from VI's waters.
VI is open to dialogue
Responding to concerns about the proposed 25 percent tariff on VI imports to neighbouring USVI, Premier Wheatley acknowledged the recent legal opinion from the USVI Legislature’s Legal Council, which stated that Governor Albert A. Bryan Jr lacks the authority to impose such a tariff but cautioned that the threat may not be entirely off the table.
"I read the article that was published in the United States Virgin Islands, and it seems as though, given the legal opinion, they’re exploring their options; My humble admonition to the United States Virgin Islands would be, you know, we don’t need to continue going down that particular road."
According to the Premier, nonetheless, the VI is open to dialogue and underscored previous good-faith consultations with USVI officials regarding the matter.
According to Dr Wheatley, "We made it very clear what our intentions were. We shared many amendments to the legislation with Governor Bryan.”
Pay fair share
At the core of the issue is the disparity between the economic benefits enjoyed by USVI-based charter operators and their minimal financial contribution to the VI and, according to Premier Wheatley, during discussions with Governor Bryan it was revealed that these operators contribute nearly $100 million to the USVI economy while paying as little as $200 annually for an operating license in the VI.
"And to pay fees from 1992, which are 30 years old, is unacceptable; The fees will increase, but we’ll increase it at a level, you know, that will be fair in my opinion."
Publicly expressing his disappointment that USVI voters and policymakers had not recognised the need for a more equitable financial arrangement, he suggests, "To be honest with you, I find it somewhat insulting that their voters would not see that they should contribute a little more to the Virgin Islands to be able to access our natural resources and to be able to make a good livelihood for themselves.”
Premier Wheatley reiterated that he is open to dialogue.
"I've extended an invitation to Governor Bryan, also an invitation to the members of the legislature to come to speak to me so we can have further dialogue; And of course, we are willing to, where necessary, make concessions. But it has to be fair. You know, things have to be fair."
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30 Responses to “USVI charter operators must pay fair fees; 1992 rates unacceptable- Premier”
Now just apply that same logic to minimum wage and all the other overdue issues in the BVI infrastructure etc
BVI Yacht captain makes some valid points. Charge too much and fewer people will come. Everyone loses just like when the golden egg laying goose is killed. Why not consider waiving entry/departure fees/taxes for boat and crew that pay an annual fee that is more reasonable. Yes, that would reduce some revenue but would that not be offset by more visits because they are easier to do? Could some sort of online clearance process for those boats so they can maximize their time here be considered? Passenger/visitor fees and taxes could also be collected in this manner also. Less paperwork at C&I too.
I should also point out that there’s plenty of private yachties in US VIs that no longer go to the BVIs with any frequency because of the cost to do so.
Continue now even our name you all want ayo don’t done