Tag:
Central Bank of Belize
Business & Economy
Belize set to launch new national credit system
For the first time in Belize, the Central Bank has introduced a centralized Credit Reporting System (CRS) to make borrowing less risky, more affordable, and more accessible nationwide. At a press conference in Belize City, Central Bank Governor Kareem Michael unveiled the initiative, explaining that the system is designed to lower borrowing rates and expand financial inclusion nationwide.
Government
Cabinet Brief for August 28, 2025
Cabinet, at its meeting on August 26th, supported a proposal for the Social Security Board to gain direct access to the Central Bank’s payment system to reduce high bank charges. It also noted the U.S. decision to suspend duty-free exemptions for low-value shipments, leading the Belize Postal Service to suspend certain packages to the U.S. effective August 27th. Updates were provided on Belize’s role in the ICJ climate change opinion, progress on the Green Belize reforestation project, rural electrification plans, and the launch of September Celebrations under the theme “Belize @44: Stronger Together, Rising Forever.
Business & Economy
Newly Designed Banknotes with Enhanced Security Now in Circulation
On Monday, August 4th, Belize officially introduced a new series of banknotes into circulation, marking a significant update to the nation’s currency. The Central Bank of Belize announced that these redesigned notes feature enhanced security features, updated themes, and new portraits that reflect Belize’s rich cultural heritage. This initiative aims to safeguard the integrity of the Belizean dollar and bolster public confidence amid concerns about counterfeiting.
Government
Ministry Hosts Roundtable with ORINCO and Central Bank of Belize on Transport Investment Opportunities
The Ministry of Constitution and Religious Affairs, Indigenous Affairs, and Transportation, led by Hon. Dr. Louis Zabaneh and CEO Mr. Chester Williams, hosted a roundtable discussion with members of the Organization of Insurance Companies of Belize Ltd. (ORINCO) and the Central Bank of Belize on July 4, 2025, at the Best Western Belize Biltmore Plaza.
Community and Society
Belize Set to Roll Out Redesigned Banknotes with Advanced Security Features
The Central Bank of Belize is set to launch a new series of banknotes by mid-year, featuring a fresh look while retaining the same value. This marks a significant change in both design and security. Here’s what you need to know about the upcoming currency changes.
Business & Economy
Design for new Belize banknotes revealed
The Central Bank of Belize (CBB) is set to issue a new series of redesigned banknotes in June or July of this year, featuring two national heroes of Belize. These heroes are the late Right Honorable George Price, Belize’s first prime minister, and the late Honorable Philip Goldson, a journalist, activist, and politician. On Thursday, January 23rd, the CBB unveiled the new banknotes during a ceremony held at the Belize Civic Centre in Belize City. The new notes will feature portraits of these two figures, replacing the British monarch, the late Queen Elizabeth II. Belize is a member of the Commonwealth and recognizes the British monarch as its head of state.
Business & Economy
New banknotes featuring national heroes to roll out later this year
In September 2024, the Central Bank of Belize (CBB) announced plans to introduce a new family of banknotes in early 2025. The designs for the new banknotes, which will narrate stories about the country's rich and diverse heritage, are expected to be revealed in January. These new bills will also incorporate the latest security features to combat counterfeiting. Furthermore, the CBB has confirmed that the banknotes will honor two of Belize's national heroes: the late Right Honorable George Cadle Price and the late Honorable Philip Goldson. The new banknotes will continue to be valued at US$1 to BZ$2.
Business & Economy
Belize Bank stops the Central Bank of Belize’s attempt to regulate domestic banking fees
The Belize Bank Limited was granted an injunction to temporarily prevent the Central Bank of Belize (CCB) from implementing the Revised Practice Direction No. 7 – Regulation of Fees and Charges (PD No. 7). This regulation change was supposed to be implemented on January 2, 2024, and would regulate fees imposed by domestic banks on customers. However, with the injunction, PD No. 7 is blocked until court proceedings conclude. The Supreme Court granted the injunction and will have a judicial hearing on February 12, 2024, before Justice Nadine Nabie.