Government
Senate passes MCC-related Bills following heated debate
During a special sitting on September 8th, the Senate passed three Bills tied to the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC), through which the Government of Belize will receive a US$125 million grant. The Bills had to pass by September 18th for Belize to access the funding. The MCC program aims to reduce poverty and promote economic growth by supporting major improvements in education and energy.
Government
GOB condemns Guatemalan military activity in Sarstoon River
The Government of Belize (GOB) lodged a formal diplomatic protest after the Guatemalan Armed Forces (GAF) conducted activities in the Sarstoon River on September 10th. Approximately 18 military and civilian vessels were reportedly present within Belizean waters. GOB condemned the actions but acknowledged that such incidents may continue until the International Court of Justice (ICJ) rules on the territorial, insular, and maritime dispute between Belize and Guatemala.
Business & Economy
Government Clarifies Plans for Proposed Belize Revenue Authority
Following protests and concerns raised by employees of the Belize Tax Service Department (BTSD), the Government of Belize has issued a detailed explanation of its plan to establish the semi-autonomous Belize Revenue Authority (BRA). In a press release issued on September 4th, the Ministry of Finance and the BTSD said the reform is intended to strengthen tax administration, improve services for taxpayers and protect government revenue. The proposed institution has also been widely referred to as the Semi-Autonomous Revenue Authority (SARA).
Business & Economy
GOB Expands GST Exemption on Residential Electricity Bills
The Government of Belize (GOB) has expanded the General Sales Tax (GST) exemption on residential electricity bills, raising the monthly threshold from $100 to $200. The measure is intended to provide relief to Belizeans facing higher electricity costs.
Government
New US Ambassador André Bauer Begins Official Duties in Belize
Newly appointed United States Ambassador to Belize Rudolph Andreas “André” Bauer has begun his official duties in the country. On September 7, 2026, Bauer paid a courtesy visit to Minister of Foreign Affairs Hon. Francis Fonseca and presented copies of his Letter of Credence.
Government
GOB Advances Blue Economy MRV System to Measure Impact for People and Nature
The Government of Belize, through the Blue Bond and Finance Permanence Unit (BBFP) within the Office of the Prime Minister, in coordination with the Ministry of Blue Economy and Marine Conservation, and in partnership with the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) and Stanford University’s Natural Capital Alliance (NatCap), convened an interactive stakeholder workshop to advance the development of Belize’s Blue Economy Monitoring, Reporting and Verification (MRV) System.
Government
Belize Participates in the 48th CPA Conference of the Caribbean, Americas and Atlantic Region
A delegation from the National Assembly is participating in the 48th Regional Conference of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association, Caribbean, Americas and Atlantic (CPA-CAA) Region. This year's conference is being hosted by the Jamaica Parliament from 30th August to 5 th September 2026, at the Moon Palace Resort in Ocho Rios, St. Ann. Held under the theme, "Strengthening Parliaments in the Digital Age," the Conference brings together parliamentarians and parliamentary officials from across the region to examine the opportunities and challenges presented by digital transformation.
Government
Future of Cuban Medical Brigade in Belize Remains Uncertain
The future of the Cuban medical brigade in Belize remains uncertain amid pressure from the United States government, which has raised concerns that Cuba's overseas medical missions involve forced labor. Minister of Health and Wellness Kevin Bernard has denied reports that Cuban medical professionals are already being sent home but confirmed that Belize has until the end of September to determine the brigade's future in the country.