Development

Tariffs Drive Interest in USVI’s South Shore Trade Zone, But Infrastructure Lags Behind

Sweeping tariffs introduced by the Trump administration could potentially spell good news for investment in the Virgin Islands. According to Wayne Biggs, the Economic Development Authority’s executive director, “there has been increased inquiries and interest in the South Shore Trade Zone.”  Mr. Biggs shared with the Committee on Economic Development and Agriculture on Monday that manufacturers of medical equipment, plastic, and batteries for renewable energy have all signaled a desire to set up shop in the USVI. Emphasizing the demand, Mr. Biggs explained that the authority “fields calls daily from businesses seeking commercial space and/or a South Shore Trade Zone location to conduct its business operations.” “The South Shore Trade Zone, in particular, has gotten sort of a new look as a result of tariffs and the fact that we're outside the customs zone,” Mr. Biggs explained to Senator Angel Bolques Jr. The lawmaker had enquired about “emerging industries” that the USVI could take a...