The 2026 theme, Pillars of Progress, builds upon last year's focus Laying the Blocks of Success and both are informed by the National Sustainable Development Plan (NSDP), "Vision 2036: Building a Sustainable Virgin Islands." 

In 2025, the Virgin Islands maintained macroeconomic stability despite global inflationary pressures and external uncertainty. This stability was underpinned by:

• Strong tax performance in goods and services, payroll, and international trade
• High dependence on—but continued strength of—the financial services sector
• Controlled recurrent expenditure, even as reform-related costs increased

The Government’s approach prioritised predictability and credibility over short-term stimulus, preserving fiscal space for future growth-oriented investment.

Financial Services  

• Remains the largest and most stable economic sector, contributing the majority of government revenue.
• Expansion into digital assets and tokenization is translating regulation into real activity.
  • 2026 Highlight Financial services continue to underpin fiscal stability while evolving into higher-value, innovation-driven activity.

Tourism 

• 2026 expected to shift toward project execution and investment mobilisation:
  • Prospect Reef Resort redevelopment moves closer to procurement
  • Stronger linkages with culture, heritage, and events

Infrastructure & Capital Development

• 2026 focus includes:
  • Early project activation
  • Improved procurement sequencing
• Priority areas:
  • Transport (including airport expansion planning)
  • Climate-resilient infrastructure

Blue Economy & Maritime Sector 

• Accession to the UK Blue Belt Programme completed.
• Progress toward establishing the EEZ (Exclusive Economic Zone).
• Maritime Authority strengthened oversight and compliance to regain Category I status.

Economic Governance: Laying the Legal and Institutional Foundation

• Our commitment is reflected in driving forward legislative amendments in nineteen core areas, from robust conflict of interest management and prudent Board oversight to strengthened procurement practices and clear delineation of Government and Board roles. (beef up)

2026 budget aims for accelerated and sustained growth in line with the National Sustainable Development Plan. We project Real GDP growth to rebound to 1.0%, driven by public and private sector infrastructure investments. Effective labour market management and vigilance against predicted high inflation will be essential.

To secure this growth, we will build fiscal buffers and invest in climate-resilient infrastructure for future competitiveness and security. Financial services and tourism remain main economic drivers, with a focus on diversifying and expanding these sectors.