Tag:
Guatemala
Business & Economy
Thousands Cross Borders Despite GST-Free Back-to-School Shopping
Despite Belize’s GST-free shopping day on August 15th, thousands of shoppers still crossed the borders in search of cheaper back-to-school purchases, particularly in Melchor de Mencos, Guatemala, and Chetumal, Mexico. Border officials reported heavy movement over the weekend, suggesting that tax-free shopping at home did not stop many Belizeans from crossing the border for better deals.
Government
Belize and Guatemala Seek OAS Support as Territorial Dispute Case Continues
As the territorial, maritime, and insular dispute between Belize and Guatemala approaches a final judgment, both governments have sought continued support from the Organization of American States (OAS). During the OAS General Assembly, held in Panama from June 22nd to 24th, Belize presented updates on the long-running dispute. It highlighted the OAS's role in guiding both countries toward a peaceful resolution through the International Court of Justice (ICJ). Both countries also requested that the OAS continue to provide an institutional platform through which permanent observers can support the operation of the OAS Office in the Adjacency Zone.
Health
MoHW Warns Public Following Rise in Measles Cases in Belize
Belize health authorities confirmed 12 measles cases on May 22nd, all linked to travel to Guatemala or exposure to travelers from that country. The Ministry of Health and Wellness (MoHW) reported that the outbreak affected patients aged 9 months to 54 years, with four distinct clusters identified, including two in Punta Gorda Town. Health officials are urging the public to remain vigilant, particularly unvaccinated persons living in or traveling to border communities.
Health
Health Officials Warn of Measles Risk and Rising Mosquito-Borne Illnesses
Belize’s Ministry of Health and Wellness (MoHW) is urging the public to remain vigilant as the country monitors two growing health concerns: a rapidly expanding measles outbreak across the Americas and an increase in mosquito-borne diseases in the region. Health officials are reminding residents that prevention, early action, and community cooperation remain critical to protecting public health.
Travel
Sapodilla Cayes Busy Over Easter Break; Belizeans Favor Guatemala Over Mexico
While many Belizeans traveled to Guatemala instead of Mexico for the Easter holidays, hundreds of foreign visitors went to the Sapodilla Cayes Marine Reserve off Belize's southern coast. According to immigration records, most of these visitors were from Guatemala, along with some from Honduras, arriving at the islands in private boats.
Business & Economy
Caye International Bank President meets German President during official tour
Caye International Bank (CIB) President Dr. Luigi Wewege recently met with German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier during the latter’s official visit to Panama. President Steinmeier’s regional tour, held from March 16th to 20th, included stops in Panama, Guatemala, and Mexico, focusing on strengthening economic ties, trade, and democratic cooperation.
Conservation
Trinational agreement signed to safeguard the Greater Maya Forest
Belize, Guatemala, and Mexico have signed a trilateral Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen cooperation in the conservation and sustainable management of the Greater Maya Forest, one of the largest and most significant tropical forest systems in the Americas. The agreement was signed on March 24, 2026, during a trinational workshop hosted by Belize from March 22nd to 28th in Placencia Village, Stann Creek District.
Government
ICJ allows Guatemala to enter Belize-Honduras Sapodilla Cayes dispute
On Thursday, March 19th, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) permitted Guatemala to intervene in the case concerning the dispute over the southern Sapodilla Cayes between Belize and Honduras.