Belize’s export performance in August 2025 remained largely stagnant, with marine products emerging as the sole standout in an otherwise flat trade landscape, according to the Statistical Institute of Belize (SIB). The SIB reported a significant $1.3 million increase in marine export revenues, climbing from $4.5 million in August 2024 to $5.7 million this year. This growth was primarily driven by heightened international demand for lobster meat, a key foreign exchange generator for the nation. Marine exports, encompassing shrimp, conch, whole lobster, and various fish species, have traditionally been a cornerstone of Belize’s export economy. However, the sector has encountered persistent challenges in recent years, including the collapse of the farmed shrimp industry and intensifying competition in global seafood markets. Despite these obstacles, lobster continues to hold its ground as a prized commodity, with steady demand from markets in the United States and Europe. The recent revenue boost signals a potential recovery for the industry, which plays a vital role in supporting the livelihoods of coastal communities and small-scale fishers across Belize.
