New Minimum Wage Proposal Divides Opinion Across Belize

On Tuesday, September 16th, Prime Minister Honourable John Briceño delivered his State of the Nation address at the University of Belize campus in Belmopan City. He spoke about the country’s progress and challenges in the economy, jobs, and national security. One announcement that drew considerable attention was another planned increase in the minimum wage from $5 to $6 per hour. While employees would take more money home, some stakeholders and critics argue the move could negatively affect the local economy.