The Ministry for Tourism, Culture, and Sustainable Development continues its series of National Tourism Policy Consultation Meetings with a crucial session scheduled for Monday, 17th March 2025, at 5:30 PM at the Virgin Gorda Catholic Community Centre.

These consultations are an essential part of the policy development process following the successful Virgin Islands Tourism Summit in January 2025. During the summit, key issues such as destination marketing, tourism product development, sustainability, and environmental management were discussed by industry experts. The consultation meetings aim to gather valuable input from tourism businesses, hoteliers, environmental groups, residents, and other stakeholders to ensure that the National Tourism Policy reflects the diverse perspectives and needs of the Virgin Islands community.

Premier and Minister for Tourism and Culture, Honourable Dr. Natalio Wheatley, highlighted the importance of the consultations during his remarks at the 13th March 2025 meeting on eco-tourism and sustainability, saying, “The discussions we are having now will help guide the future of our tourism sector, ensuring that we develop in a sustainable way. The upcoming consultation on 17th March is critical as we move towards a National Tourism Policy that balances economic growth with environmental stewardship. I encourage everyone to attend and provide feedback to ensure the policy reflects the aspirations of all stakeholders in our tourism sector.”

The upcoming consultation meeting on Virgin Gorda will focus on a wide range of issues. By attending and contributing, participants will play an important role in guiding the future of the Virgin Islands' tourism sector.

Junior Minister for Culture and Tourism, Honourable Luce Hodge-Smith, along with Premier Honourable Dr. Natalio D. Wheatley, will be in attendance at the meeting. Their presence underscores the government’s commitment to fostering inclusive dialogue with all sectors of society, ensuring the development of a tourism policy that benefits both residents and visitors.

The Ministry encourages all members of the public, including residents of the Sister Islands, tourism professionals, environmental and cultural groups, and the broader community, to attend and contribute their thoughts and feedback. The input gathered during these meetings will be essential in finalising the National Tourism Policy, which will serve as a roadmap for sustainable and responsible tourism growth in the Virgin Islands.

For more information about the upcoming consultation meeting or to learn more about the National Tourism Policy development process, please visit the Ministry's website or contact the Ministry of Tourism at 468-2161.
The Ministry is responsible for the development and implementation of policies that guide the tourism sector and promote sustainable practices within the Virgin Islands. Its mission is to ensure the growth of the tourism industry while preserving the cultural heritage and environmental integrity of the territory. Through community engagement and partnerships, the Ministry strives to position the Virgin Islands as a leading destination for cultural, eco-friendly, and heritage-based tourism.