Belize Bank International Opens Office in San Pedro

As San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye continues to develop and is recognized as one of the fastest-growing municipalities in the country, the island is expanding services to meet the demands of key sectors within the community. Among these is the financial sector, which saw the opening of Belize Bank International Limited (BBIL) on February 28, offering international banking services to foreign clients on La Isla Bonita.
The new office was officially introduced during a reception held at the Alaia Hotel, south of San Pedro Town. Belize Bank’s Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Filippo Alario, opened the brief formalities and welcomed guests. Alario said BBIL’s presence will simplify processes for investors interested in doing business in San Pedro.
“The Belize Bank International is there to support non-Belizean customers,” he said. Alario noted that the institution is among the most highly capitalized in the international banking space. “We are very resilient, strong, and part of a large group, and we are here to ensure that we grow with this economy,” he added.
BBIL’s Managing Director, Marcus Samuel, told the audience that the institution recognized the opportunity within the San Pedro market and decided to establish a physical presence on the island.
“We decided that it was a good idea to have a physical presence on the island, where we can have proper conversations and bring international banking to our clients,” Samuel said. He explained that the goal is to improve both business operations and quality of life for those working and living on the island. “The intention is to also deliver unique and professionalized service based on the strength of the brand that we have, which is the Belize Bank,” he said.
Also addressing attendees was Chief Executive Officer of Waterloo Investment Holdings, Stewart Howard, who expressed optimism about the venture. Howard noted that many individuals are coming to Belize, particularly San Pedro, seeking investment opportunities. He believes that providing accessible international banking options will further strengthen the island’s appeal as an investment destination.Following the formal remarks, guests mingled during a cocktail reception.
BBIL previously operated in San Pedro before relocating to Belize City during the COVID-19 pandemic. The institution is now located on Barrier Reef Drive, across from San Pedro Roman Catholic Church. Services offered include multi-currency accounts, certificates of deposit, and streamlined wire transfers, among others.