Friday, November 6, 2026

Business & Economy

Geology and Petroleum Department Participates in the Virtual APPEX 2021

The Ministry of Natural Resources, Petroleum and Mining informs the public that the Geology and Petroleum Department (GPD) will be participating in the virtual American Association of Petroleum Geologists Prospect and Property Expo (APPEX) 2021 from March 1 to 4, 2021.

Island businessman interrogated by the Commission of Inquiry on dubious land transactions and relation with former Deputy Prime Minister

On Friday, February 26th, the commission interrogated another group of persons of interest, among them San Pedro’s businessman Kevin (Zhourong) Li, who was questioned about his relationship with the former Minister in charge of the Lands Department Hugo Patt, and how he was able to obtain multiple properties within a short time.

Former PM Dean Barrow answers to the Commission of Inquiry about sale of government assets

Former prime minister Rt. Hon. Dean Barrow explained the process when selling government property such as vehicles for more than an hour.

Lobster season dates have been changed; now closed March 1st – June 30th every year

The decision to extend the season was made by the Honourable Andre Perez, Minister of the Blue Economy and Civil Aviation, after consulting with the Fisheries Department and the fishing industry. As per the Fisheries Regulations 24A (1), the season extension will now close from the first of March to June 30th of this year.

Analysis of the State of the Nation’s Economy

As the Government of Belize continues its consultations with social partners in the public and private sector, the Ministry of Finance has released the findings of a preliminary analysis into the state of the nation’s economy to date.According to GOB the average income per person (real GDP per capita) has fallen steadily since 2008, from $7,412 in 2008 to $7,040 by 2019, and then plummeting to $5,843 in 2020.

Budget Consultations Held with Public Service Union

The second in a series of budget consultations for fiscal year 2021/2022 was held on Wednesday, February 10th in Belmopan with members of the Public Service Union (PSU). The purpose of the meeting was to discuss the current financial state of affairs and to seek to find common ground on the development of a sustainable, practical and equitable homegrown plan for economic recovery.

Government denies intentions to cut public officer’s salaries; BBB will support motion if implemented

The current government has reportedly denied allegations that public officers’ salaries will see up to a 20% reduction in pay at the start of the new fiscal year. Should salary cuts indeed be implemented, the government was notified via a letter sent by the Belize Business Bureau (BBB) to support the action.

Prime Minister Leads Budget Consultations with Private Sector Representatives

On Tuesday, February 2, 2021, the Prime Minister Hon. John Briceño met with representatives of the Belize Chamber of Commerce and the Belize Business Bureau. Discussions focused on the realistic financial situation facing the nation, with a view to rebuilding the economy. The session was constructive with valuable input received from the private sector stakeholders.