Tag:
Ministry of Tourism
Environment
Government Launches Emergency Plan to Tackle Sargassum Surge
In response to a 70% increase in sargassum seaweed washing ashore compared to the last significant event in 2022, the Government of Belize's Cabinet has approved a comprehensive Sargassum Emergency Response Plan, announced on July 17th. This approval comes amid an escalating influx of sargassum that is severely impacting Belize’s coastal communities, tourism, and economy.
Community and Society
San Pedro Artisans Face Deadline to Relocate
San Pedro Town’s local artisans currently operating at the artisan market across from the Saca Chispas Field have been given a deadline to relocate to a new site at El Embarcadero. This initiative, spearheaded by the Ministry of Tourism and the San Pedro Town Council (SPTC), aims to boost the island's appeal to tourists. However, it has faced opposition from artisans and residents.
Community and Society
Injunction against Artisan Marker Project at El Embarcadero dismissed
The construction of a new artisan market at the El Embarcadero site on Nurse Shark Street in downtown San Pedro has been allowed to continue after it was temporarily halted. An injunction was filed against the project in November 2024. On February 3rd, a judge in the High Court in Belize City dismissed the case, granting legal approval for the project led by the Ministry of Tourism and the Area Representative.
Community and Society
Newly elected BTIA President Efren Perez visits San Pedro
The Belize Tourism Industry Association (BTIA) San Pedro Chapter recently welcomed their newly elected national president, Efren Perez, who visited San Pedro Town from January 27th through 29th. This visit is part of an initiative to increase BTIA membership and share what the organization has accomplished. The organization believes that with a larger membership, they can enhance their advocacy efforts. While in San Pedro, Perez gave an exclusive interview to The San Pedro Sun, sharing his thoughts and vision for the future.
Community and Society
San Pedro Town’s Municipal airstrip upgraded
The John Greif II Municipal Airport in San Pedro Town underwent significant upgrades in December 2024, enhancing its capacity and safety features for peak tourism season. This project, which had a budget of approximately $3.7 million, was a collaborative effort involving the Belize Airports Authority, the Ministry of Tourism, and private sector partners such as Maya Island Air and Tropic Air, along with a grant from the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB).
Community and Society
“Lack of consultation” leads to injunction on Artisan Market Project
The situation regarding the relocation of the artisan market in San Pedro Town has escalated due to a recent injunction to stop the ongoing construction project. The Ministry of Tourism and Honorable Andre Perez plan to establish a new artisan market at El Embarcadero on Nurse Shark Street. However, this proposal has encountered opposition from local artisans, fishermen, and residents, who argue that the site is unsuitable and threatens their livelihoods.
Community and Society
Injunction filed to halt construction of Artisan Market at El Embarcadero
The situation regarding the relocation of the artisan market in San Pedro, Belize, escalated when a recent injunction was filed to halt the ongoing construction project. The Ministry of Tourism and the Honorable Andre Perez, Area Representative for Belize Rural South, plan to build a new artisan market at El Embarcadero on Nurse Shark Street. This has faced strong opposition from local artisans, fishermen, and residents, who argue that the proposed site is unsuitable and threatens their livelihoods. This injunction was submitted by Severro Guerrero, along with other residents of San Pedro.
Business & Economy
Possible Hotel Tax increase in discussion
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.
