Martinique has already recorded more than 3,500 COVID-19 cases. A three-week curfew was imposed last Friday after the French-territory recorded more 700 cases in one week. Movements are limited between 10 pm and 5 am.

Meanwhile, in St Lucia — which has been open for tourism since June — a new curfew order was imposed by the government amid a steady rise in COVID-19 cases in recent weeks. St Lucia has already recorded more than 90 COVID-19 cases. The curfew hours in that country run from 9 pm to 5 am and will be in place for a month.

The lockdown in both countries comes amid local calls for the government to mimic neighbouring countries that have more relaxed protocols for the reopening of their tourism industry.

Criticism erupted across the territory last week after Premier Andrew Fahie announced new protocols for the reopening of the BVI’s borders on December 1. Many said the rules are too stringent and push tourists to visit neighbouring countries with more relaxed rules.

However, the BVI government said it’s protocols are to ensure the safety of the local population and expected visitors. Health Minister Carvin Malone also warned that the BVI is trying to avoid COVID-19 spikes that are currently being experienced by neighbouring islands with more relaxed reopening protocols.