Business & Economy
Belize launches TalentUp initiative to strengthen digital skills
The TalentUp Operational Workshop officially launched in Belize on Wednesday, May 20th, as part of a Google- and Inter-American Development Bank (IDB)-backed initiative to strengthen digital skills among Belizeans, particularly youth. The event took place at the Ministry of E-Governance headquarters in Belmopan and brought together government officials, private-sector representatives, and members of the digital skills training team. Prime Minister Honorable John Briceño, who also oversees e-governance, attended the launch and addressed participants, underscoring the government’s commitment to the program.
Business & Economy
Future of Sugar Industry in Belize Continues to Face Challenges; May Affect Tourism Sector
In January of this year, the 2026 sugar crop season officially opened, with production projected to increase by up to 20%. As the crop season nears its end, production and cane quality are reportedly up; however, concerns about the industry’s future continue to grow. The main issues are rising fuel prices and limited access to fertilizers, factors that are believed to affect next year’s crop and markets nationwide.
Business & Economy
Nine San Pedro women complete holistic massage training
On April 16th, the Holistic School of Massage & Spa Therapy celebrated the graduation of nine young women from San Pedro Town at La Divina Restaurant. The event marked the completion of a four-month training program designed to equip participants with professional skills for Belize’s growing wellness industry. The ceremony took place on the evening of Thursday, April 23rd, with graduates receiving certificates after completing a comprehensive curriculum.
Business & Economy
Mainland travel becomes more expensive with new bus rates
Travel within mainland Belize is set to become more expensive following a government-approved increase in bus fares. The decision comes just weeks after water taxi and airline fares rose, making travel to and from the Cayes and across the country more costly. The fare adjustment was approved at a Cabinet meeting on Tuesday, April 21st, and is expected to take effect on Friday, April 24th.
Business & Economy
Government of Belize grants tax relief to over 800 small businesses
The Government of Belize completed approvals for its 2025–2026 Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprise (MSME) Business Tax Amnesty Program on April 16th. A total of 909 applications were submitted nationwide, with 806 MSMEs approved for a one-year exemption from business tax, along with relief from accumulated penalties and interest on past tax obligations.
Business & Economy
LPG Price Hike Adds to Rising Butane Costs in Belize
Effective April 15, 2026, the Supplies Control Unit (SCU), under the Ministry of Agriculture, Food Security and New Growth Industries, introduced new controlled prices for Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG). The adjustment increases prices by BZ$0.17 per gallon and by $4 per 100-pound cylinder nationwide, impacting both wholesale and retail sales, including in San Pedro.
Business & Economy
Former Stake Bank Project Relaunched as ‘Olo Caye’ Cruise Port
The proposed cruise port off Belize City, once known as Stake Bank, has been rebranded as ‘Olo Caye’ following legal battles, receivership, and eventual government acquisition. According to a press release dated April 10th, the project will be transformed into a world-class cruise port with a luxury resort. “Olo Caye is led by Piero Dibattista, whose professional record spans more than 30 years and includes the successful transformation of tourism in Roatán, Honduras,” the release noted.
Business & Economy
Market Day Initiative Promotes San Pedro’s Local Market
San Pedro Town Councilor Dianeli Aranda organized the second Market Day at The Cart Stop in San Pedro Town on Saturday, April 11th, from 11AM to 7PM. The event featured BBQ lunch sales, handmade crafts, unique finds, ice cream, and music, drawing both locals and visitors.
Business & Economy
Water Taxi and Airline Fares Increase Across Belize
Traveling to San Pedro Town on Ambergris Caye has become more expensive once again, this time due to the continued rise in fuel prices. Recent fare adjustments by local airlines and water taxi operators are expected to impact both residents and visitors traveling to the island.
Business & Economy
Queen Conch Season Cut Short by Over Two Months
The Queen Conch (Strombus gigas) season will close more than two months ahead of its scheduled June 30 end date after the production quota for the 2025–2026 fishing season was reached. The quota is set and monitored by the Belize Fisheries Department. Conch lovers can still enjoy the delicacy through the Easter holidays before the closure takes effect, with the season expected to reopen on October 1, 2026.
Business & Economy
Lobster Exports Among Key Drivers of Belize’s Economic Growth in 2025
During a presentation by the Statistical Institute of Belize (SIB) on March 25th, lobster exports were identified as a major contributor to the national economy's growth in 2025. However, in San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye, fishermen reported a decline in the number of large lobsters throughout the season.