Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit has acknowledged the need for possible changes to Dominica’s Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programme in light of increasing international scrutiny. During today’s (June 23rd) press conference, Skerrit said that while the programme has served Dominica well, the country is prepared to adapt to ensure its integrity and sustainability.
“We remain committed to the CBI programme as a pillar of our economic strategy,” the Prime Minister said. “But we also recognise the evolving global context and concerns being raised.”
His remarks come as four Eastern Caribbean nations, including Dominica, were named in a leaked U.S. State Department memo listing countries under review for their economic citizenship programmes. The memo reportedly cited concerns over due diligence, the absence of residency requirements, and the risk of misuse of second citizenships. While the government of Dominica has not yet responded officially to the report, Skerrit’s tone suggested awareness of the mounting pressure.
“We have always maintained a high standard,” Skerrit noted. “If improvements are necessary to strengthen those standards, then we are willing to consider them.”
The Prime Minister indicated that consultations were ongoing at the regional level, referencing cooperation between OECS governments on harmonisation of CBI policies. He also said that Dominica is in active dialogue with international partners to address concerns without compromising the benefits the programme brings to infrastructure, healthcare, and climate resilience.
Dominica’s CBI revenues have funded key national projects such as housing developments, airport construction, and post-hurricane recovery. However, calls for greater transparency and external regulation have intensified, particularly from North American and European nations.
“We are not closing our eyes to global developments,” Skerrit said. “We are monitoring, we are assessing, and we will take the necessary actions in Dominica’s interest.”
His comments appear aimed at reassuring both international stakeholders and domestic audiences that while Dominica remains a strong proponent of economic citizenship, it is not immune to reform. Whether those adjustments will be technical, legislative, or structural remains to be seen, but Skerrit’s statement suggests change, however measured, is on the horizon.
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