The British Virgin Islands will pursue full membership in the Caribbean Community, marking what officials describe as a significant step in deepening regional cooperation.

The announcement was made by the premier’s office yesterday.

The Virgin Islands is currently an associate member of CARICOM, alongside Anguilla, Bermuda, Curaçao, Cayman Islands and Turks and Caicos Islands.

As associate members, these territories can engage in aspects of regional integration and access CARICOM institutions but do not participate in the Common Market.

The BVI has held associate membership since 1991.

Montserrat, a British Overseas Territory, is the only non-independent state that holds full membership in CARICOM.

BVI Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley, who is attending the 50th Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of CARICOM in St Kitts and Nevis, emphasised the strategic importance of strengthening engagement with CARICOM.

“The Virgin Islands is committed to strengthening regional ties, fostering economic growth, and contributing meaningfully to the Caribbean community. Full membership in CARICOM presents an opportunity to collaborate on trade, security, climate resilience, and education initiatives that benefit our people,” he said.

While exploring full membership, the premier clarified that the BVI will not commit to participation in the free movement of persons protocol at this stage.

Negotiations have not yet begun, and the government intends to approach discussions carefully to ensure the interests of residents are protected.

Anticipated benefits of full membership include enhanced trade opportunities, collaboration in public health and education, strengthened diplomatic ties, and joint initiatives in disaster preparedness and climate resilience.

The premier noted that the territory is home to people from more than 100 countries who live and work there.

Wheatley described this diversity as a strength that reflects the broader Caribbean spirit, adding that formalising the relationship through full membership could help The Virgin Islands leverage its multicultural identity to bridge regional gaps.