The National Bus Consolidation Pro Tempore Advisory Committee is making significant strides in establishing the Consolidated National Bus Company, a transformative public-private partnership aimed at modernizing Belize’s transportation infrastructure. During a pivotal meeting on October 3, the committee reviewed progress and outlined the next steps in this ambitious transition.
Officials revealed that the new entity has already secured a commanding 71 percent of the national market share, thanks to commitments from existing bus operators. Financial audits of these operators are currently in progress, with an opening balance sheet anticipated by mid-November. This financial groundwork will be instrumental in determining equity participation and shaping the company’s financial projections.
Stakeholder consultations have gained momentum, engaging a diverse array of participants, including bus operators, financial institutions, and international partners. These discussions are centered on fostering transparency, inclusivity, and gathering critical insights as the sector moves toward consolidation.
The implementation timeline remains firmly on track, with the Consolidated National Bus Company slated to commence operations on January 1, 2026. The rollout will introduce enhanced safety standards, upgraded and new terminals, and the phased introduction of modern buses over the next two to three years.
The committee underscored that this initiative is not a nationalization effort but a strategic public-private partnership designed to bolster public transportation and align Belize with global sustainable development goals.
The committee comprises representatives from key entities, including the Ministry of Infrastructure Development and Housing, the Statistical Institute of Belize, the University of Belize, the National Trade Union Congress of Belize, the Ministry of Economic Transformation, the Attorney General’s Ministry, the media, bus operators, commuters, the business community, and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).