Describing it as one of the country’s most important development tools, Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit has reaffirmed his government’s commitment to Dominica’s Citizenship by Investment (CBI) Programme while rejecting calls that could undermine investor confidence.
Speaking during his monthly press conference, Skerrit said the programme has played a central role in financing national development over the past three decades, allowing successive governments to invest in critical infrastructure and public services without placing a heavier tax burden on citizens.
“The CBI Programme has been one of the most important drivers of Dominica’s development over the past three decades,” the Prime Minister said. “It has financed resilient housing, schools, health facilities, roads, bridges, climate resilience projects and has been a critical source of financing after many natural disasters and external shocks.“
Skerrit noted that revenues generated through the programme have also supported investment in tourism, renewable energy, agriculture, the international airport project and other sectors that the government considers essential to diversifying the economy and creating long-term employment opportunities.
He emphasized that while international expectations for investment migration programmes have continued to evolve, Dominica has consistently strengthened its regulatory framework to maintain the programme’s credibility.
According to the Prime Minister, reforms have included enhanced due diligence procedures, stronger governance arrangements, closer cooperation with international law enforcement agencies and more rigorous applicant screening. He also pointed to the establishment of a regional regulatory authority, which is expected to become operational later this month, as another step toward improving oversight.
“Our objective remains clear, to preserve one of the world’s most credible and well-regulated Citizenship by Investment programmes,” Skerrit stated.
While defending the programme, the Prime Minister stressed that the government does not view citizenship by investment as the country’s only engine of economic growth. He said Dominica continues to invest in tourism, agriculture, renewable energy, education, housing, the digital economy and the blue economy to broaden the country’s economic base.
Skerrit welcomed constructive discussion on ways to strengthen the programme but warned against statements that seek to damage its international reputation.
“Constructive discussions about improving the programme are always welcome. However, irresponsible statements that seek to undermine confidence in the programme or advocate its dismantling do not serve the national interest,” he said.
The Prime Minister maintained that the government’s approach will continue to focus on maintaining high international standards while ensuring the programme remains a reliable source of financing for Dominica’s long-term development objectives.
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