TORTOLA, British Virgin Islands, Jun. 18, CMC – The government of this British Overseas Territory, has approved the start of formal negotiations with the Dominican Republic to strengthen food security, trade, and broader economic cooperation.
This was announced by Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley during his 2026 State of the Territory address.
“Government is also advancing regional cooperation to strengthen food security and economic resilience,” Dr Wheatley stated. “Cabinet recently approved the commencement of formal negotiations towards a memorandum of understanding with the Dominican Republic focused on food security, trade and broader economic cooperation.”
The Premier said the proposed agreement could help strengthen supply chains and create new opportunities for economic collaboration.
“This partnership has the potential to strengthen supply resilience, improve market access and deepen one of our region’s long-standing relationships,” Wheatley stated.
The announcement was made during a section of the address focused on economic diversification, agriculture and fisheries. Wheatley said his government continues to invest in food production and agricultural resilience as part of its long-term development strategy.
He noted that more than 30 farmers and fishers have received direct assistance through government grant programmes designed to support local businesses and strengthen domestic food production. The government also plans to advance several projects intended to improve agricultural infrastructure and support the fishing sector.
Among those initiatives are plans for a fish landing site at the Omar Hodge Fisherman’s Wharf, an agriculture complex to improve the collection, processing and marketing of local produce, a modern abattoir and a dedicated farmers’ reservoir.
“Food security is national security,” Wheatley stated. “And building resilience means producing more of what we consume right here at home.”
The Dominican Republic has long served as an important trading partner for the Virgin Islands, supplying a range of agricultural produce, food products and construction materials.
CMC/bv/kb/2026