Tag:
Prime Minister John Briceno
Politics and Government
PUP unveils Plan Belize 2.0
The People's United Party (PUP) recently unveiled its Plan Belize 2.0 manifesto at an event in San Ignacio, Belize, as part of their campaign for the upcoming general elections. This initiative, led by Prime Minister John Briceño, aims to build upon the progress made since the introduction of the original Plan Belize. The new plan promises significant improvements across various sectors, including education, healthcare, and economic stability.
Business & Economy
Government of Belize seeks to increase the hotel tax to 12.5%
The Government of Belize (GOB) is considering a significant increase in the hotel tax, proposing to raise it from the current rate of 9% to 12.5%. This proposal follows a period of unprecedented growth in the country's tourism sector. The planned tax increase is part of a broader strategy to enhance tourism infrastructure and support national development. This decision aligns with the government's goal of taking advantage of the thriving tourism industry by generating additional revenue through higher taxes.
Business & Economy
Corona Beer officially available in Belize
Belize has officially welcomed Corona Extra beer into the country. This development follows the government's approval to import 1,500 cases, marking a significant moment for beer enthusiasts in the country.
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
Income tax exemption threshold is now set to $29,000
As of January 1, 2025, a new income tax exemption threshold was implemented, raising the threshold from $26,000 to $29,000. This change means that workers earning less than $29,000 annually will no longer be required to pay income tax. As a result, over 3000 employees earning below this limit will benefit from making income tax payments, which is a significant advantage for those within this income.
Community and Society
Celebrating the legacy and leadership of George Price
On January 15th Belizeans unite to honor George Cadle Price, known as the "Father of the Nation," during George Price Day. He was born on January 15, 1919, and his impact on the history of Belize is significant. Price served twice as the head of government from 1961 to 1984 and again from 1989 to 1993. He was the First Minister and Premier under British rule until Belize's independence in 1981, and he became the nation’s first prime minister following that independence. Price is recognized as one of the principal architects of Belizean autonomy, so many refer to him as the "Father of the Nation."
Accidents & Disasters
Tropical Storm Sara causes massive flooding in Belize
Tropical Storm Sara made landfall in southern Belize on Sunday, November 17th, bringing heavy rainfall to the region. A tropical storm warning was issued for the entire Belizean coast and the Cayes. As the storm dissipated, residents in flood-prone communities were relieved to find that waters began to recede. Some of the affected areas included communities in the western Cayo District, where on Monday, November 18th, Prime Minister John Briceño conducted a flyover and visited several impacted communities.
Community and Society
Reverse Osmosis Water Plant inaugurated in Caye Caulker
On Friday, October 11th, Belize Water Services (BWS) celebrated the inauguration of its 150k Reverse Osmosis Plant and a groundbreaking ceremony for a new...
