The Premier said, "We have long viewed the establishment of a Far East BVI Representative Office as a major component of the strategy to expand and deepen the commercial footprint of the Territory's financial services sector in this important market. In this regard, this government has decided to establish a modest office in Hong Kong to service that region."
The Premier also noted that the functions of the office will include diplomatic representation in the Asia Pacific Region, strengthening BVI's voice with Government authorities in the region, and promoting BVI business including tourism and new international investment opportunities.
Chair of the BVI's Financial Services Business Development Committee, Mrs. Lorna Smith, OBE, recently travelled to Hong Kong to prepare for setting up the new BVI Office. She will be making the official and logistical arrangements to allow for the office's official opening. Government is currently recruiting an experienced professional to serve as the Head of the Office once it is established.
This will be the BVI's second office established in a major international region. More than 10 years ago, Mrs. Smith was responsible for successfully establishing the BVI London House in the United Kingdom to serve London and the European region. She also served as the first director of that office. As director, she led a number of major initiatives, including strengthening ties with the European Community through the Overseas Countries and Territories Association, the establishment of the BVI All Party Parliamentary Group and the Friends of the BVI.
The BVI's Asia office is expected to mirror similar activities of the BVI London Office, but with a particular focus on financial services, as the Asia region is one the Territory's primary markets.
The Government of the Virgin Islands remains committed to further enhancing the Territory's tourism and financial services industries.
