BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS
Location:
The British Virgin Islands are located in the eastern Caribbean Sea, about 110
kilometres east of Puerto Rico.
Population:
12,864 (July, 1994 estimate)
Languages:
Government:
The British Virgin Islands are a dependent territory of the United Kingdom.
Legal System:
The British Virgin Islands' legal system is based on English law.
Telecommunications:
The British Virgin Islands have a worldwide external telephone service. There
are submarine cable communication links to Bermuda.
Economy:
The economy, one of the most prosperous in the Caribbean area, is highly dependent on
the tourist industry, which generates about 21% of the national income. In 1985, the
government offered offshore registration to companies wishing to incorporate in the
islands, and, in consequence, incorporation fees generated about $2 million in 1987.
The economy slowed in 1991 because of the poor performance of the tourist sector and
tight commercial bank credit. Livestock raising is the most significant agricultural
activity. The islands' crops, limited by poor soils, are unable to meet food requirements.
Industries:
The British Virgin Islands' main industries are tourism, financial services, light
industry, construction, rum and concrete block.
Currency:
1 United States dollar (US$) = 100 cents
Exchange Rates:
United States currency is used
Related sites:
British Virgin Islands Online Tourist Guide
BVI Hotels
Webfoot's Guide To British Virgin Islands
To the Offshore World home page.
To the Offshore Financial Centres page.