Business & Economy
Public Consultation on Turtle Island and Private Island Project Held in San Pedro
A public consultation on a proposed mixed-use real estate development southwest of San Pedro Town was held on November 27th at the Angel Nuñez Auditorium. The area, identified as Turtle Island–Private Island, lies near established tourism and residential zones such as Cayo Espanto and Brahma Blue. The presentations focused on the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for Castle Capital Development Ltd., the company behind the proposed project. While conservation aspects were highlighted, the small group of stakeholders and tour guide students in attendance left with more questions than answers, expressing uncertainty about the project’s long-term environmental impacts.
Business & Economy
GST-Free Weekends Return for 2025 Christmas Shopping
Belizeans are set to benefit from two GST-free weekends this Christmas season, announced by the Belize Tax Service. The tax relief will take place on December 6–7 and December 20–21, allowing shoppers nationwide to purchase standard-rated goods without paying the usual 12.5% General Sales Tax (GST).
Business & Economy
Belize Postal Service Outlines New Rules for Shipping to the U.S.
On November 6th, the Belize Postal Service held an informational session at the House of Culture in San Pedro, unveiling significant changes to the process of shipping goods to the United States. The session, led by Postmaster General Dr. Marsha Price and key postal team members, directly engaged residents and business owners on the new regulations and steps required before mail and packages can be accepted for U.S.-bound shipment.
Business & Economy
San Pedro Tops National Rankings for Cost-of-Living Increases in September 2025
San Pedro Town has recorded the highest increase in consumer prices in Belize, according to the Statistical Institute of Belize’s (SIB) latest report on the Consumer Price Index (CPI) for September 2025. The island registered an inflation rate of 2.2 percent compared to September 2024, more than triple the national average of 0.6 percent, making it the municipality most affected by rising costs of goods and services.
Business & Economy
Ministry of Agriculture clarifies potential sugar price changes
A late October Cabinet release sparked concern among consumers and industry stakeholders after it indicated the government would remove price controls on retail-packaged sugar. In response, the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security has clarified that while the price of packaged sugar may fluctuate, the wholesale industrial price will remain regulated.
Business & Economy
Prime Minister’s Office Launches Digital Skills Training Program
On October 29, 2025, the Office of the Prime Minister announced the opening of applications for a new national digital skills training initiative. The program will equip Belizeans with advanced competencies for the global digital services sector, including cloud engineering, cybersecurity, data analytics, artificial intelligence, web development, IT support and CRM, digital marketing, and agile project management.
Business & Economy
MSME Tax Amnesty Roadshow brings one-stop services to San Pedro
On Tuesday, November 4th, the MSME Tax Amnesty Programme One-Stop Clinic was held at the SunBreeze Hotel Conference Room in San Pedro from 8AM to 3 PM. The Programme is organized by the Office of the Prime Minister, in partnership with BELTRAIDE, the Belize Companies and Corporate Affairs Registry (BCCAR), the Belize Tax Service (BTS), the Ministry of Rural Transformation, and other partner agencies. The event allowed micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) to formalize their business status, resolve outstanding tax issues, and access special relief under the programme.
Business & Economy
BTB September Report Reveals Decline in Tourist Arrivals
The Belize Tourism Board (BTB) has released its September 2025 tourism statistics, revealing 20,822 overnight tourist arrivals, an 8.6% decline compared to the same month last year. The data, published on October 28, 2025, was compiled from key points of entry across the country and highlights a decline during what is traditionally one of Belize’s slower travel months.
Business & Economy
Caribbean Tire opens branch in Ambergris Caye
On Friday, October 24th, Caribbean Tire Ltd officially expanded to the Cayes, opening a new branch in San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye. The company, known primarily for its wide selection of tires, is also offering its signature line of professional INGCO tools, car care items, alignment services for both golf carts and vehicles, basic vehicle maintenance, Valvoline lubricant products, and other houseware supplies.
Business & Economy
MSME Tax Amnesty Programme Extended United December 31, 2025
The Government of Belize, through the Office of the Prime Minister, in partnership with BELTRAIDE, the Investment Policy and Compliance Unit (IPCU), the Belize Tax Service (BTS), the Belize Companies & Corporate Affairs Registry (BCCAR), the Economic Development Council (EDC), the Ministry of Local Government and City/Town Councils, is pleased to announce the extension of the MSME Tax Amnesty Programme until December 31, 2025.
Business & Economy
Investors Outline Local Benefits and Environmental Plans for Cayo Rosario Project
The proposed Six Senses luxury resort at Cayo Rosario has generated both excitement and concern among residents, environmental groups, and the wider public. Questions have been raised about the project’s environmental impact, compliance with regulations, and the potential economic benefits for Ambergris Caye and Belize.
