Business & Economy
Belize to Begin Shrimp Exports to Taiwan
On July 30th, the Government of Belize announced that the Republic of China (Taiwan) has officially approved shrimp exportation from Belize. The confirmation came during a visit to Taiwan by a Belizean delegation attending the Second Meeting of the Administrative Commission under the Belize–Taiwan Economic Cooperation Agreement. This milestone follows over two years of technical collaboration and regulatory engagement between the two countries.
Business & Economy
Business Establishments Warned on the Sale of Expired Goods
The sale of expired goods is not only prohibited but also poses a serious health hazard to the public. In San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye, the office of the Public Health Inspector continues to monitor establishments suspected of keeping expired products on their shelves. Routine inspections have led to the removal and destruction of such goods, and repeat offenders risk legal action and prosecution.
Business & Economy
Belize Chamber of Commerce Boosts Tax Compliance with Awareness Campaign
On July 28th, the Belize Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI), in collaboration with the Business Tax Department, hosted a pivotal business tax presentation. Held at the Sunbreeze Conference Room in San Pedro Town, the session aimed to provide clarity and guidance on tax regulations and compliance for local business owners. Attended by representatives from various sectors, the event focused on digital transitions, mandatory documentation, and the urgent need for timely tax submissions.
Business & Economy
GOB Revokes Caribi Bleu Casino License
On Friday, July 25th, the Government of Belize (GOB), through the Ministry of Investment, issued an official statement announcing the formal cancellation of the license for Caribi Bleu Casino, located in San Pedro Town. The casino, which operated under the name GMK Sky Limited, is no longer permitted to operate the gaming premises following the detention of its owner, Rima Ray, in the United States on charges of money laundering and operating an unlicensed gambling establishment.
Business & Economy
GST-Free Weekends Return to Ease Back-to-School Costs
The Government of Belize has officially declared two upcoming GST-free back-to-school weekends to ease financial pressure on families and stimulate local commerce. The tax relief periods will run from Thursday, July 31st, to Saturday, August 2nd, coinciding with the Emancipation Day weekend, and again from Friday, August 15th, to Sunday, August 17th. During these designated days, all eligible purchases will be exempt from the standard 12.5% General Sales Tax (GST) at the point of sale.
Business & Economy
Sugar Industry in Crisis; Agriculture Minister Discusses Potential Sugar Price Increase
The price of sugar may increase as the country’s northern cane fields face a crisis attributed to climate change and a fast-spreading fungus called Fusarium. The infestation has reportedly caused over $50 million in losses, delivering a severe blow to one of Belize’s most important industries. As a result, the Ministry of Agriculture is considering an increase in the domestic price of sugar.
Business & Economy
Belize Launches Sustainable & Inclusive Belize (SAiB) Grants Program for Tourism MSMEs
On July 2nd, at the Angel Nuñez Auditorium, a workshop was held to introduce the launch of the Sustainable & Inclusive Belize (SAiB) Grants Program. SaiB is a government initiative aimed at empowering micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) in the tourism value chain. The program, executed by the Ministry of Finance, the Ministry of Tourism and Diaspora Relations, and the Belize Tourism Board (BTB), aims to foster income growth, sustainability, and climate resilience across the country’s vibrant tourism landscape.
Business & Economy
Belize Tax Authorities Urge Business Compliance
Businesses operating in San Pedro and across Belize are being reminded of their obligation to comply with the tax regime governed by the Income and Business Tax Act. Authorities stress that full compliance is essential to avoid penalties and to ensure the uninterrupted operation of business activities nationwide.