Business & Economy
BEL Explains Higher Electricity Bills Amid $30 Million Debt to Mexican Power Supplier
On Monday, August 24th, Belize Electricity Limited (BEL) addressed concerns over recent increases in electricity bills, attributing much of the higher consumption to increased temperatures associated with the dry season. BEL Executive Chairman Lynn Young explained that appliances and electronic devices consume more energy during hotter weather. Meanwhile, the company disclosed that it owes approximately $30 million to Mexican power supplier Comisión Federal de Electricidad (CFE).
Business & Economy
National MSME Roadshow and Buy Belize Expo held in San Pedro
The National MSME Roadshow rolled into San Pedro from August 20th through the 22nd, bringing three days of free training, multi-agency services, and a Buy Belize Expo to the island community. Organized under the directive of the Office of the Prime Minister, the initiative is a collaboration with BELTRAIDE, the Economic Development Council, and the Investment Policy and Compliance Unit. Activities were held at the Lion’s Den on August 20th and 21st and concluded with the Buy Belize Expo at San Pedro Central Park on August 22nd.
Business & Economy
BEL Adds COPA Charge to August Electricity Bills
Belize Electricity Limited (BEL) has implemented a new Cost of Power Adjustment (COPA), increasing electricity charges by 1.5 cents per kilowatt-hour on bills issued in August 2026. The adjustment was announced on August 19 and took effect immediately. It follows a final decision by the Public Utilities Commission (PUC) and applies to customers across Belize, including San Pedro, except vulnerable households receiving the Social Rate.
Business & Economy
Thousands Cross Borders Despite GST-Free Back-to-School Shopping
Despite Belize’s GST-free shopping day on August 15th, thousands of shoppers still crossed the borders in search of cheaper back-to-school purchases, particularly in Melchor de Mencos, Guatemala, and Chetumal, Mexico. Border officials reported heavy movement over the weekend, suggesting that tax-free shopping at home did not stop many Belizeans from crossing the border for better deals.
Business & Economy
Back-to-School Tax-Free Saturdays Offer Savings for Belizean Families
The Belize Tax Service (BTS) has announced two back-to-school tax-free Saturdays, set for August 15th and 29th, 2026, giving families across Belize, including San Pedro, an opportunity to save on school shopping. The initiative will apply nationwide at participating businesses and cover approved school supplies and laptops, which will be GST-free on the designated days.
Business & Economy
Secret Beach stakeholders meet to address ongoing challenges
On Friday, August 7th, members of the Secret Beach Association (SBA) convened a meeting to address several concerns affecting stakeholders and the growing tourism destination northwest of San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye. Among the main issues discussed were security, public health, road infrastructure, and garbage collection. Several government officials and agencies were invited to participate in the discussion; however, some were not represented at the meeting.
Business & Economy
SFXCU hosts first Educational Business Expo in San Pedro
The St. Francis Xavier Credit Union (SFXCU) San Pedro branch held its first Educational Business Expo at Central Park on August 6th, drawing local businesses, government agencies, and community members to learn more about member services, financial products, and protections.
Business & Economy
Government Launches Digital Trade License System Nationwide
The Ministry of Rural Transformation, Community Development and Local Government launched a digital trade license system on July 31st, introducing a new online process designed to streamline applications across Belize's municipalities and rural authorities. The rollout featured the Trade License Management and Administration System (TRALMAS) and the Community Profile Information System (CPIS).
Business & Economy
San Pedro Fishermen Voice Concerns Over Proposed Fishing Regulations
San Pedro commercial fishermen gathered on Tuesday, August 4th, at 6:30PM at the basketball court in the El Embarcadero area of San Pedro Town to discuss proposed changes to fishing regulations, including new restrictions on lobster shades and other commercial fishing practices. The San Pedro Commercial Fishing Association called the meeting, drawing fishermen, boat operators, and other stakeholders concerned about how the draft regulations could affect their livelihoods.
Business & Economy
Consumer confidence slips as inflation continues to pressure households
Belizeans remained cautious about making major purchases in June 2026 despite improving expectations for the year ahead, as consumer confidence remained below the neutral mark while inflation continued to increase the cost of everyday goods and services. New data released by the Statistical Institute of Belize (SIB) showed that the national Consumer Confidence Index (CCI) slipped slightly during the month, while the Consumer Price Index (CPI) recorded a 4.6% annual inflation rate, reflecting higher prices across many essential goods and services.
Business & Economy
Belize’s imports climb 21.3% amid declining exports
Belize's merchandise imports continued to climb in June, while domestic exports declined, according to the Statistical Institute of Belize's (SIB) latest External Trade release. The report highlighted rising imports of fuel, food, and machinery, trends that have contributed to higher costs for businesses and consumers across the country, including on Ambergris Caye. In June alone, merchandise imports reached $275.8 million, representing a 21.3% increase compared to June 2025.