Government
Belize Climate Week 2026: Driving Climate Action Through Innovation, Creativity and Technology
The Ministry of Sustainable Development, Climate Change and Solid Waste Management, through the Climate Change Department (CCD), announces that Belize’s Fifth National Climate Week officially commenced on Friday, August 21, 2026, with an opening ceremony at the Punta Gorda Sporting Complex in Punta Gorda Town.
Conservation
GOB Secures Landmark Agreement to Protect Turneffe Atoll
n Wednesday, August 19, 2026, the Government of Belize signed the Turneffe Conservation Land Trust Deed of Mutual Release, Compromise, and Settlement. The agreement represents the successful transformation of an earlier agreement between the Government of Belize and the Turneffe Atoll Trust into a stronger and more comprehensive national agreement. Under the new arrangement, approximately 17,000 acres will remain as national lands under public ownership, with the Government of Belize holding the lands in an irrevocable conservation trust for the benefit of the people of Belize.
Business & Economy
BEL Adds COPA Charge to August Electricity Bills
Belize Electricity Limited (BEL) has implemented a new Cost of Power Adjustment (COPA), increasing electricity charges by 1.5 cents per kilowatt-hour on bills issued in August 2026. The adjustment was announced on August 19 and took effect immediately. It follows a final decision by the Public Utilities Commission (PUC) and applies to customers across Belize, including San Pedro, except vulnerable households receiving the Social Rate.
Government
MoHW Advises Public on Dengue Prevention During Rainy Season
The Ministry of Health and Wellness reminds the public that the rainy season increases the risk of dengue transmission. Dengue is spread by the Aedes aegypti mosquito, which breeds in stagnant water commonly found in containers around homes and communities.
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.