Government
Belize Participates in Regional Dialogue on Connectivity and Trade
Belize is strengthening its engagement with Central America as countries across the region work together to improve the movement of goods and people and facilitate trade, building a more connected and competitive region. A Belizean delegation comprising Mrs. Narda Garcia, Chief Executive Officer, Office of the Prime Minister, Investment and Civil Aviation, in her capacity as Alternate Governor to the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), and Ms. Cinnamon Bottaro, Belize's Representative on the Board of Directors at the IDB, participated in the Ministerial Dialogue "Central America at the Center: Connectivity and Integration for a more Competitive Region" in Panama City on August 12, 2026.
Government
National Sports Council holds public consultation on new National Sports Policy
The National Sports Council of Belize (NSC) held its fourth public consultation on Wednesday, August 12th, at 11AM at the Angel Nuñez Auditorium in San Pedro Town. The consultation is part of the development of a new National Sports Policy and strategic plan intended to guide the country's sporting sector over the next 10 years. The meeting brought together athletes, coaches, school representatives, club officials, and community leaders to share their concerns and ideas for the future of sports in Belize.
Government
Amid Growing Opposition, Cabinet Decides Not to Support BTL’s Proposed Acquisition of SMART
In February of this year, the Government of Belize paused the proposed acquisition of Speednet Communications Limited, which operates SMART, by Belize Telemedia Limited (BTL). At the time, the government indicated that the Public Utilities Commission (PUC) needed to be involved in the process first. Fast forward to August 4th, it was announced that BTL's Board of Directors had approved proceeding with the proposed acquisition. The announcement prompted concerns from several citizens and organizations, with opposition continuing to grow as discussions surrounding the proposal advanced.
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.
Government
Magistracy of Belize Launches First Official Website to Expand Public Access to Justice
The Magistrate’s Court of Belize has officially launched its first-ever website, www.magistracy.gov.bz, a milestone made possible through the partnership between the Magistracy and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), with funding from the European Union (EU) through the PACE Justice Project with an investment of BZD$73,680.00.
Government
Safe Third Country Agreement brings more asylum seekers to Belize
Belize has received a total of eight asylum seekers under its Safe Third Country Agreement with the United States. According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, most are Haitian nationals, along with nationals from other Central American countries. On August 5th, the ministry indicated that the process was continuing but did not confirm whether additional asylum seekers were expected to arrive in the country.
Government
Blue Teddy Bear Campaign Expands Child Protection Efforts with Teacher Training Initiative
The Blue Teddy Bear Campaign entered Phase II of its national child protection initiative, expanding its focus to equip teachers, parents, and students with the knowledge and tools needed to create safer environments for children across Belize.
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).