In his New Year's message, the Premier stated that 2021 was a year of highs and lows for the Virgin Islands as we continue to battle unprecedented challenges that are not of our making and for the most part beyond our control, originating far beyond our shores.

"Over the past several months, the Virgin Islands economy has been constantly and consistently progressing with recovery, through the policies and management strategies of your Government and through the cooperation of all stakeholders in the public and private sectors. Our tourism industry, which remains in high demand, has been seeing increasing numbers of visitor arrivals," Premier Fahie stated in his New Year's address.

He added, "Cruise arrivals, day-trippers, overnight visitors, yachts and charter visitors, are all on the rise, notwithstanding the pandemic. Air travel to Tortola, Virgin Gorda and Anegada is now more convenient and accessible. All of this spells good news for our accommodation properties, taxi and tour operators, restaurants and bars, and vendors, Government revenues – and for the wider economy. To God be the Glory."

According to the Premier, during 2021, Government pushed forward with a number of large and small projects to stimulate economic activity, support local businesses, improve our infrastructure, contribute to job creation and improve and expand service delivery for our people. A lot has been done and more work will continue.

"The New Year, 2022, meets us with a new Budget in place to support our continued economic recovery and growth. Many more projects and programmes are already lined up for implementation with others in advanced stages of preparation. Opportunities from new industries such as the Gaming and Betting industry are around the corner," Premier Fahie stated.

He added, "Your Government intends to work even more closely with the private sector to discover and launch further opportunities. The Digital Economy and Green Energy sectors are two of the top priority areas, as we continue working to further strengthen our resilience through diversification."

According to Premier Fahie, the positive trends in tourism are expected to continue, once residents remain vigilant and continue to maintain the Virgin Islands’ profile as a safe destination.

"In short, 2022 is poised to be a year of hope, opportunity and resurgence for the Virgin Islands, and we ask God to keep it so. As Premier, my commitment for 2022 - and that of your Government, is to continue working hard to promote Good Governance and to transform the Virgin Islands into a leading regional economy through entrepreneurship, innovation and local and foreign investment, so that we can create more opportunities for you and your children, and improve your social and economic security and overall quality of life," Premier Fahie stated.