The Hon. Victor Banks, Minister of Finance, Economic Development, Investment and Commerce in the Government of Anguilla, a British Overseas Territory in the Caribbean, today announced the appointment of a joint government - private sector committee, the e-Commerce Development Task Force, to advise and assist the government in promoting and developing e-commerce as a leading sector in the Anguillian economy
The Task Force's mandate is to draft and assist government to, develop, and implement a comprehensive legislative, regulatory, and infrastructure development strategy for Anguilla with the aims of diversifying the economy and attracting new e-businesses.
The Task Force is led by the Permanent Secretary for Economic Development, Investment, and Commerce in the Ministry of Finance, Mr. Fabian M. Fahie. The Hon. Minister of Finance, Mr. Victor Banks, is an ex officio member of the Task Force.
"This early initiative demonstrates the commitment of our new Government to developing e-commerce as a vital industry for our island. It will complement our existing high-end tourism and international financial services sectors," said the Minister of Finance. "Anguilla will implement this strategy at Internet speed by employing our e-advantages, for example our indirect taxation base. E-Commerce provides a wide range of viable business opportunities to those who move aggressively in this expanding global market and we intend to be a leader."
Mr. Fahie commented, "e-commerce can be the catalyst that will lift the economic and social development of Anguilla to a new level. This is an industry of which human resources are the most vital component and Anguillians have consistently demonstrated their high rank in this regard."
Mr. Banks concluded, "We have long held the belief that Anguilla provides a solid platform for e-commerce and the world markets it serves. We are dedicated to widening that base - Anguilla is open for e-business."