Marine & Jobs: BVI Tourism and Culture Junior Minister Luce Hodge-Smith is backing local boat captains after complaints that charter companies favor expatriate crews, with locals also saying they’re asked to train newcomers who then take their work. Energy Cost Pressure: Opposition Leader Marlon Penn is calling for a sustained electricity subsidy through end-2026, arguing families can’t wait for future credits after BVIEC bills rose following the end of an emergency fuel subsidy. Trade Rules Update: The BVI Trade Commission’s non-operational functions have been shifted under the Consumer Protection (Amendment) Act, with the minister and Director of Business now handling complaints, investigations, and market monitoring. Road Works & Public Safety: Road Town’s DeCastro Street Sidewalks Improvement Project has been delayed, as the RDA says remaining contractual and administrative steps are still underway; the tree replacement plan is also in the spotlight. Local Infrastructure Debate: Commentator Claude Skelton Cline urges bringing in outside experts to fix the water and sewerage system while training local staff to take over. Tourism Workforce: The BVITBFC wrapped up its 2026 Tourism Education Summer Internship Programme, placing 20 students with resorts and yacht charter operations. Regional Environment: Leaders from multiple territories, including the USVI, are urging Governor Apatang to oppose a deep-seabed mining lease sale near the Northern Mariana Islands. Finance & Compliance: A BVI-linked trust and wealth services story highlights how China’s July 2026 offshore trust rules change tax assumptions for cross-border families.