For African-based entrepreneurs, investors and families considering an offshore trust, the choice of jurisdiction has become increasingly important.
In my view, the British Virgin Islands (BVI) is currently one of the jurisdictions that deserves serious consideration.
Why?
🏛️ 1. A well-established and respected trust jurisdiction
The BVI has a long history as an international financial centre and has developed a sophisticated legal and regulatory framework for trusts and fiduciary structures.
For families looking for an offshore trust jurisdiction, that combination of experience, legal certainty and international recognition is important.
⚖️ 2. Common-law foundations
The BVI’s legal system is based on English common law principles. For many African clients and their professional advisers, this provides a familiar and well-understood legal foundation when considering international trust structures.
🧩 3. Flexibility in structuring
BVI trusts can be structured to accommodate a range of family and investment objectives, including succession planning, governance, intergenerational wealth planning and the holding of international assets.
The flexibility to tailor the trust around the family’s circumstances can be particularly valuable for internationally mobile families and entrepreneurs with assets across several jurisdictions.
🌐 4. A strong international financial ecosystem
The BVI sits within a mature international financial-services network, with access to professional trustees, corporate service providers, legal advisers, investment managers and other specialists experienced in cross-border structures.
This can make a significant difference when a trust needs to interact with companies, investment structures and assets in multiple countries.
🌍 5. Particularly relevant for African families with international assets
Many African entrepreneurs and families now have interests extending well beyond their home country — including businesses, investment portfolios, property and other assets held internationally.