Government
National Symbols Coin Series enters circulation in Belize
The Central Bank of Belize confirmed that Belize’s new National Symbols Coin Series entered circulation on Friday, September 18th. The six redesigned coins, minted by the Royal Canadian Mint, are now legal tender nationwide and will circulate alongside existing coins bearing the image of the late Queen Elizabeth II.
Government
Belize remains on US list of major drug-transit countries
Belize has again been named by the United States (US) among 23 countries designated as major drug-transit or major illicit drug-producing countries for Fiscal Year 2027. The designation was included in a presidential determination submitted to the US Congress on September 15th.
Government
ICJ sets dates for oral hearings in Belize disputes with Guatemala and Honduras
Belize’s two territorial dispute cases before the International Court of Justice (ICJ) are moving to the oral hearing stage, with proceedings scheduled for February and March 2027. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed the timeline and communicated the schedule to Belize’s Agent before the ICJ, Ambassador Assad Shoman.
Community and Society
Taiwan Ambassador tours San Pedro Hospital as construction reaches 70%
His Excellency Amino C. Y. Chi, Ambassador of the Republic of China (Taiwan) to Belize, visited San Pedro on September 18th to review construction progress at the San Pedro and Caye Caulker General Hospital. Belize Rural South Area Representative Honorable Andre Perez hosted the visit and accompanied Ambassador Chi on a tour of the project.
Government
Belize and the United States Launch Five-Year Investment in Education and Energy
The Government of Belize and the United States Government, through the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC), officially launched implementation of the US$125 million Belize Compact, marking the beginning of the compact’s five-year implementation period.
Business & Economy
$5.2 Million Program Targets Sugarcane Mealybug Infestation
The Government of Belize has approved an approximately $5.2 million emergency program to address a growing mealybug infestation affecting sugarcane production and farmers’ livelihoods in northern Belize. The initiative was announced on September 7th as the government and industry partners moved to protect the sugar industry from further losses.
Government
Westlake Generators Come Online to Stabilize Belize’s Power Supply
On September 13th, Belize Electricity Limited’s (BEL) temporary generation facility at Westlake became operational at about 40% capacity, helping the country avoid load shedding. Once fully operational, the facility is expected to provide 20 megawatts (MW) of emergency generation capacity. Belize installed the generators amid increasing pressure on its electricity supply.
Government
Prime Minister Honorable John Briceño Delivers State of the Nation Address
On Tuesday, September 15th, Prime Minister Honorable John Briceño delivered the annual State of the Nation Address in the capital, Belmopan. The ceremony included an inspection of the Guard of Honor, the raising of the Belizean flag, speeches, and the introduction of 45 newly naturalized Belizeans.