Country Profile: British Virgin Islands
The British Virgin Islands (BVI), an Overseas Territory of the United Kingdom, are located in the Caribbean, east of Puerto Rico. With a population of around 40,102 (2024 est.), the islands boast a diverse demographic and a vibrant economy primarily driven by tourism and services. Although the islands have a parliamentary democracy with limited self-governance, their economic stability is challenged by natural disasters such as hurricanes and heavy reliance on external factors.
Geography
The British Virgin Islands consist of over 16 inhabited islands and more than 20 uninhabited islands, covering a total area of 151 sq km. They are characterized by a mix of flat coral islands and steep volcanic terrain, with the highest point being Mount Sage at 521 m. The sub-tropical climate is moderated by trade winds, making the islands a popular tourist destination.
- 80 km of coastline
- Maritime claims extend to 12 nm territorial sea
- Population distribution is concentrated in Tortola, Anegada, Virgin Gorda, and Jost Van Dyke
- Susceptible to hurricanes and tropical storms from July to October
People and Society
The population of the British Virgin Islands is estimated at 40,102 in 2024, with a higher proportion of females (21,060) than males (19,042). The ethnic makeup is predominantly African/Black at 76.3%, with English as the official language. The society is largely Protestant, with 70.2% of the population identifying as such.
- 38.5 years median age (2024)
- 10.9 births/1,000 population (2024)
- 80.1 years life expectancy at birth (2024)
- 49.7% urban population (2023)
- 2.5% education expenditure of GDP (2022)
Economy
The economy of the British Virgin Islands is heavily reliant on tourism and associated services, positioning it as a significant tax haven. The GDP was approximately $1.38 billion in 2018, and the islands have faced economic challenges since the 2008 economic crisis. They are also noted for being major rum exporters.
- 4.2% inflation rate (2022)
- 100% electrification rate (2022)
- Major livestock and agricultural products include fruits and vegetables
- 45% of exports go to Malta, Guyana, Greece, and Germany (2023)
- $400 million budget revenues (2017 est.)
Government
The British Virgin Islands operate under a parliamentary democracy, featuring limited self-governance as an Overseas Territory of the UK. The government is led by the Premier, Dr. Natalio Wheatley, and the territory’s legal framework is based on English common law. The islands hold elections every four years, with the most recent one occurring in April 2023.
- 15 seats in the unicameral House of Assembly
- 18 years is the voting age
- The latest constitutional order took effect on 15 June 2007
- National holiday observed on 1 July (Territory Day)
Military and Security
Defense and military responsibilities for the British Virgin Islands lie with the United Kingdom. There is no standing military force or defense force independent from the UK's military protections.
Energy
The British Virgin Islands have achieved 100% electrification and rely primarily on fossil fuels for energy generation, accounting for 97.7% of total installed capacity. The islands face challenges in energy costs and sustainability.
- 63,000 kW installed generating capacity (2023)
- 163.82 million kWh energy consumption (2023)
- 188,000 metric tonnes CO2 emissions (2023)
Transportation
Transportation infrastructure in the British Virgin Islands includes three airports and a merchant marine fleet of 29 vessels. Road Harbor serves as the main port facility for trade.
- 3 airports as of 2025
- 1 key port, Road Harbor
- Civil aircraft registration code is VP-L
Communications
The British Virgin Islands have a well-developed communication system with a high percentage of internet usage, and mobile cellular subscriptions exceed the population count.
- 78% of the population are internet users (2017)
- 23,000 fixed line subscriptions (2021)
- 38,000 mobile cellular subscriptions (2021)
Key Metrics
| Metric | Value | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 40,102 | 2024 estimated |
| Area | 151 sq km | Total area |
| GDP | $1.38 billion | 2018 estimated |
| Energy consumption | 163.82 million kWh | 2023 estimated |
| Birth rate | 10.9 births/1,000 population | 2024 estimated |
| Life expectancy | 80.1 years | 2024 estimated |
| Median age | 38.5 years | 2024 estimated |
| Inflation rate | 4.2% | 2022 |
| Urban population | 49.7% | 2023 |
| Education expenditure | 2.5% of GDP | 2022 |
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