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BVI Sees No Disruptions So Far Amid U.S. Dockworkers Strike, Government and Businesses Remain Vigilant
The British Virgin Islands (BVI) government, local businesses, and shipping companies are closely monitoring the potential impact of a major U.S. dockworkers strike, which threatens to disrupt global supply chains.
On 1 October 2024, thousands of dockworkers at ports from New England to Texas walked off the job, demanding better pay and job security. As negotiations between the International Longshore Association (ILA) and the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) remain unresolved, concerns are growing over possible delays in shipping to the Caribbean.
The Honourable Kye M. Rymer, Minister for Communications and Works, assured the public that the BVI government is actively assessing the situation. In a statement issued shortly after the strike began, Minister Rymer confirmed that the British Virgin Islands Port Authority (BVIPA) has received no indication that October shipments will be disrupted. He noted that the West Palm Beach Port, a critical hub for Tropical Shipping, remains operational as it is not affected by the strike.
“Our shipping lines do not operate through unionised ports,” Rymer said, “but we acknowledge that the duration of these strikes could affect our supply chain.” He stressed that shipping companies are prioritising essential goods, and local supermarkets are coordinating with suppliers to maintain inventory levels. Rymer urged calm while the government continues to monitor developments.
OneMart, one of the territory’s largest supermarket chains, echoed the government’s reassurances. In a statement, OneMart management noted that their stores are well-stocked and equipped to meet current demand. The company acknowledged the potential for extended disruptions if the strike continues, but reassured customers that contingency plans are in place to minimize any impact on the food supply.
OneMart also reminded customers not to panic and to avoid rushed buying. “We advise our customers to stay calm, avoid panic-buying, and remain informed,” said a company spokesperson.
Crowley, a major shipping company servicing the region, has also provided updates to customers. While the contract between the ILA and USMX expired on 30 September, Crowley emphasised that its terminals in Jacksonville, Port Everglades, Philadelphia, and San Juan are not affected by the strike, as they are not part of the ILA Master Contract. “We do not expect any disruptions and expect that cargo will move as normal through those ports,” Crowley said in a statement, ensuring their readiness to support customers despite the ongoing labor disputes.
As the strike continues, the BVI government and businesses remain vigilant. Minister Rymer has promised further updates as the situation unfolds, thanking residents for their patience during this uncertain period. Local companies are also preparing for any potential delays, while shipping lines not involved in the strike remain operational for now. Residents are encouraged to stay informed and trust that contingency plans are in place to safeguard essential supplies.
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) has identified the body recovered from the waters near Maria’s By The Sea Hotel as that of Vincent Warner, 47, of Tortola.
According to a statement issued by the RVIPF on Friday, officers recovered the body of a male individual from the sea near Maria’s By The Sea Hotel. “Officers are currently on scene,” the statement read. “Further details will be provided as they become available.”
Warner had been reported missing since May 26, 2025. Family members have since confirmed his identity to police.
He was described as having a slim build and a dark complexion, standing approximately 5 feet 6 inches tall and weighing around 170 pounds. He was the son of Viva Ham-Warner.
As of Saturday, the RVIPF has not released details on the cause of death. The investigation remains ongoing.
The Premier of the British Virgin Islands, Hon. Dr. Natalio D. Wheatley, has moved to reassure the public and international stakeholders of the Territory’s financial stability following the planned wind-down of Bank of Asia (BVI) Limited. In an official statement released Friday, Dr. Wheatley emphasized the government’s commitment to transparency, strong regulatory oversight, and the continued integrity of the Virgin Islands’ globally recognized financial services sector.
“As Premier, my priority is the stability and wellbeing of our Islands,” Wheatley said. “We are proud of the global confidence placed in our financial services sector, and I want to reaffirm that this Government remains focused on protecting that reputation.”
Wheatley praised the leadership of the Financial Services Commission (FSC) and the Virgin Islands Deposit Insurance Corporation (VIDIC), two key institutions responsible for regulating and protecting the Territory’s banking sector. He described both as operating with “professional expertise and international best practices” and expressed confidence in their ability to manage the wind-down process with diligence and in full compliance with the BVI’s regulatory framework.
The Premier also addressed public concerns over the placement of government funds with Bank of Asia, clarifying that such decisions are made within the Ministry of Finance by designated public officers, without any involvement from government ministers.
“Deposits such as these are strategies to diversify the Government’s financial portfolio,” he explained. “This is a practice that is commonplace and fiscally responsible across jurisdictions worldwide.”
To promote public trust and ensure transparency, Dr. Wheatley announced he has requested an internal audit of the specific transaction involving the Bank of Asia deposit. “I hope this will offer clear insight, foster confidence, and bring greater understanding to all,” he said.
The statement comes as the Virgin Islands continues to navigate its position as a global financial center, facing evolving international scrutiny and regulatory expectations. The Premier encouraged residents to rely on official sources—including the Government’s website and verified social media channels—for accurate updates on financial and governance matters.
“As Premier, I remain fully committed to protecting the public interest and to maintaining the strength and stability of our financial system,” he said. “This Government is moving forward with confidence, purpose, and unity. Together, we move ahead—with clarity, with strength, and with optimism.”
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) confirmed Friday that the body of a man was recovered from the waters near Maria’s by the Sea Hotel in Road Town.
Officers from the RVIPF responded to the scene shortly before noon, where the body was retrieved from the sea. The identity of the individual has not yet been released.
Police remained at the location into the afternoon, continuing their investigation. The circumstances surrounding the discovery remain unclear.
In a brief statement, the RVIPF said, “The body of a male individual was recovered from the sea in the vicinity of Maria’s by the Sea Hotel a short moment ago. Officers are currently on scene. Further details will be provided as they become available.”
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
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