Friday, November 6, 2026

Business & Economy

Update on Unemployment Relief Program

The total number of applications received under Phase 2 of the COVID-19 Unemployment Relief Program (URP) as of October 8, 2020 was 66,859. Of these, 42,575 applications have been approved and sent to National Bank of Belize for payment. Of the approved applications, 23,818 were from laid off persons and 18,757 were self-employed persons. Approvals are almost evenly divided between males and females.

Unauthorized large-scale dredging project remains inactive; charges could follow after detailed probe

After halting an unauthorized dredging project off the west coast of Ambergris Caye, relevant authorities have been investigating the extent of the damage, with possible charges to be laid on developers

Mail services out of Belize limited to the USA for now

Mail in Belize has practically stalled, with post only going out once a week to the US, and post only coming in from the US and UK to the country. Once flights become more frequent, the Belize Postal Service hopes to resume normal operations as best as possible.

Belize Companies and Corporate Affairs Registry (BCCAR) Launches Website to Facilitate Digital Transactions

The public is now able to easily access all the relevant information, requirements, and forms for services at the local registry. The website provides guidance on accessing services digitally minimizing the need to physically visit the local registry. BCCAR is also now accepting payment via online banking and bank deposits and will soon offer credit/debit card payments as an option to minimize the use of cash.

New controlled prices for Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG)

The Supplies Control Unit (SCU) in the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Commerce is hereby informing the general public that effective Wednesday, October 7th, 2020 new fixed controlled prices will be introduced for the sale of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG). This change now reflects the sale by wholesale volume and retail sale by volume in both urban and rural areas. 

Queen Conch 2020-21 Season officially opens

October 1st marks the official opening of the Queen Conch season & the Belize Fisheries Department reminds all fishers to adhere to the official regulations.

Unauthorized large-scale dredging halted; workers arrested and equipment confiscated

The unauthorized dredging operations were halted on Friday, September 25th by a team consisting of the local police department, Fisheries Department and Hol Chan Marine Reserve’s management.

Despite cease & desist order, unauthorized large-scale dredging off Ambergris Caye’s west coast continues

Despite a formal Cessation Order from the Mining Unit addressed to a Steve Parrish, no enforcement has occurred, and the project has significantly expanded.