Saint Lucia will not shut down its Citizenship by Investment Programme (CIP), despite international concerns, says Minister Dr. Ernest Hilaire, who maintains the country has a sovereign right to operate the initiative while upholding strict due diligence standards.
Dr. Hilaire, who has responsibility for the programme, said the Government remains committed to working with international partners to address any concerns, while ensuring the programme continues to function as a key pillar of national development.
“We accept that the nature of the programme means there will be associated risks,” Hilaire said. “There are individuals who may attempt to use such programmes to mask illegal activities, but these individuals are criminals by nature — not because of the programme itself.”
He emphasized that Saint Lucia’s due diligence framework is among the most robust, noting that all background checks are conducted by internationally recognized firms.
“The firms conducting due diligence are based in Europe and the United Kingdom. There are no local firms handling that process,” he said. “We work continuously with our partners to ensure we meet the highest standards.”
The Minister also pointed to the Government’s track record of responding to international developments, including actions taken in alignment with global partners following geopolitical events, as evidence of Saint Lucia’s willingness to act responsibly.
At the same time, Dr. Hilaire stressed that the CIP remains an essential component of the country’s economic strategy, particularly in financing development projects. “No one is giving us grants to build our roads, our schools, or our hospitals,” he said. “If we do not generate revenue and attract investment, our people will suffer.
The programme is one of the key ways we are able to finance the development of our country.”
Regionally, Saint Lucia is not alone in operating such initiatives. Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada, and Saint Kitts and Nevis all have established citizenship by investment programmes, while St. Vincent and the Grenadines has announced plans to introduce its own.
Dr. Hilaire added that while Saint Lucia remains open to dialogue with international partners, the Government will not compromise on its ability to generate revenue and support national growth.
“We will always be willing to listen and work with our partners to resolve any issues,” Hilaire said. “But we have a responsibility to take care of our people and our country, and we will continue to do so.”
He reiterated that the Government will continue to pursue legitimate avenues to attract investment, expand trade, and strengthen the economy, with the CIP playing a central role in those efforts.
