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U.S. Virgin Islands Cannabis Program: A Game-Changer for Locals and Tourists in 2025
U.S. Virgin Islands Cannabis Program: Opportunities, Equity, and Tourism Growth
The U.S. Virgin Islands are gearing up to make waves in the cannabis industry. With over 2.4 million tourists visiting St. Thomas, St. Croix, and St. John every year, the islands are poised to become a hot spot for cannabis tourism and local economic growth.
The U.S. Virgin Islands Cannabis Program officially kicks off this week, with applications for cultivation, dispensaries, and research licenses rolling out. Each island has set specific limits to ensure a balanced and controlled rollout of the program.
This article draws from Debra Borchardt’s report on Green Market Report, which sheds light on how the U.S. Virgin Islands are leading the way with inclusive and innovative cannabis regulations.
Cannabis Regulations by Island
Each of the three islands has its own framework for cannabis licensing in Virgin Islands:
- St. Thomas and St. Croix: Approved for up to seven dispensaries and 15 cultivation licenses.
- St. John: Smaller in scale, with approvals for three dispensaries and five cultivation licenses.
While the exact size of the cannabis market remains unclear, the program is expected to benefit locals while attracting tourists eager to experience the islands’ unique offerings.
Social Equity and Sacramental Use
Governor Albert Bryan Jr. is proud of the program’s forward-thinking policies, especially its focus on social equity and sacramental cannabis use.
“We are the first in this country to allow for sacramental use,” said Government House Communications Director Richard Motta. “We recognize there are community members who use cannabis for religious purposes.”
The program also includes measures to support those historically impacted by cannabis-related criminalization. This includes:
- Automatic Expungement: For certain cannabis-related crimes.
- Cannabis Social Equity Program: Focused on female-owned businesses, service-disabled veterans, and those affected by past cannabis convictions.
These initiatives aim to create opportunities for marginalized individuals to participate in the Virgin Islands cannabis industry legally and equitably.
Cannabis License Applications
The Virgin Islands will use a merit-based system to determine license winners, emphasizing fair and transparent criteria. Key requirements include:
- At least 50.1% ownership by a local resident over 21 years old.
- No disqualifying felony offenses.
Application windows for different licenses are opening soon:
- Microcultivators: Applications began on November 4.
- Research & Development: Expected to open November 20.
- Dispensaries: Anticipated December 20.
However, the Office of Cannabis Regulations (OCR) advises applicants to rely on their website and official social media for accurate updates.
A Comprehensive Cannabis Program
The Virgin Islands Cannabis Act offers more than just licensing—it’s a blueprint for inclusivity and sustainability. The program has been carefully developed, vetted, and tailored to address the islands’ unique needs.
“This took time, but the rules and regulations are comprehensive and thoughtfully designed,” added Motta.
The program balances the cannabis tourism in Virgin Islands growth with local benefits, ensuring that residents play a key role in this emerging green economy.
Final Thoughts
The U.S. Virgin Islands Cannabis Program is more than a business opportunity—it’s a step forward in social equity, tourism innovation, and economic empowerment. By prioritizing marginalized communities and incorporating sacramental use, the islands are setting an example for cannabis regulation worldwide.
For the latest updates on the Virgin Islands cannabis program, visit the Green Market Report.
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