Honourable Anthony Mahler

As Caye Caulker prepares for its historic October 8, 2025, referendum on the legalisation of cannabis, Cabinet members have voiced differing opinions on the initiative. If voters approve the petition led by Ilya Rosado, Caye Caulker would become the only place in Belize where cannabis use is legal and regulated.

The 2025 Belize Investment Summit officially opened on Thursday, September 4th, at Grand Caribe Resort north of San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye. The biennial summit, the largest of its kind in Belize, brings together investors, entrepreneurs, and business leaders from around the world. This year’s event, held under the theme “Bridging Markets, Building Resilience,” drew more than 500 participants and highlighted Belize’s efforts to strengthen international partnerships and build a more resilient economy.

The low tourism season in Belize typically begins in June, coinciding with the start of the rainy season. A brief uptick in visitors is usually seen in July during the annual lobster festivals, but afterward, tourist arrivals decline. This year is no exception, with several businesses, particularly hotels, noticing a drop in occupancy. The trend has also affected restaurants and souvenir shops, prompting many to begin planning for the slow months ahead until the high season resumes in November. While some establishments intend to close temporarily, others are shifting focus to attract local tourists.

Following the disappointing loss against Costa Rica in the Gold Cup qualifiers, the senior men's national football team is expected to see significant changes under the new Minister of Sports, the Honourable Anthony Mahler. The national team, known as the Jaguars, suffered a staggering 13-1 defeat in aggregate goals against Costa Rica, which is led by Mexican coach Miguel ‘Piojo’ Herrera. Since the loss, Belizeans have expressed their disappointment in the national team’s performance and are calling for changes. However, the Football Federation of Belize (FFB), through its president, stated on Wednesday, March 26, that there are no major issues within the team, and any minor problems will be addressed.

Following reports of a potential increase in the hotel tax from 9% to 12.5%, the tourism industry has expressed concerns. However, the Ministry of Tourism has clarified that this is part of a broader tax reform discussion, and no decision has yet been made.

The proposed increase in entrance fees at the Hol Chan Marine Reserve (HCMR) from US$10 to US$20 has sparked controversy among tour operators and tour guides. They have voiced their concerns, questioning the HCMR management about the 100% increase and the need for a proper justification. HCMR has responded to these concerns, explaining the process that led to the new proposed entrance fee. It's important to note that the US$20 entrance fee was not a unilateral decision by Hol Chan but a collective one following a meeting with the heads of the associations representing tour operators, tour guides, and sports fishers, ensuring transparency in the decision-making process.

On Wednesday, June 12th, tour operators and guides from San Pedro and Caye Caulker met to discuss the proposed fee increase at the Hol Chan Marine Reserve (HCMR) from US$10 to US$20. The attendees acknowledged that operational costs are rising and were open to an increase but requested a detailed analysis justifying the 100% raise. The HCMR management agreed to conduct a thorough study and provide a report to the stakeholders by Wednesday, June 19th, regarding the proposed fee hike to access the marine park.

The 29th Annual District 4250 Rotary Conference celebrated the diverse and united Rotary family in San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye, from April 25th to 27th. The event was a testament to the strong community and connection participants from Belize, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, the United States, the Dominican Republic, and Argentina shared.