The Belize sugar industry commenced its 2026 harvesting season today with an official inauguration ceremony at BSI in Tower Hill, Orange Walk Town. The event marked the beginning of what government authorities project could become a record-breaking production year for the crucial agricultural sector.
Prime Minister John Briceño, attending both as national leader and local representative for Orange Walk Central, emphasized the fundamental economic importance of sugar production to northern Belize and the nation’s overall economy. In statements to News 5, Briceño characterized his participation as more than ceremonial, describing it as a demonstration of governmental dedication to tangible support rather than empty rhetoric.
“For me as Prime Minister and as area representative, this constitutes a fundamental responsibility,” Briceño stated. “Coming from the northern region, we possess thorough comprehension and respect for this industry’s significance. My presence here serves to reaffirm our commitment through concrete actions rather than mere words.”
The Prime Minister detailed post-Commission of Inquiry initiatives that generated a collaborative $130 million strategic investment plan developed with agricultural producers and industry participants. When the sector faced imminent threat from fusarium disease, the administration rapidly allocated $3 million in emergency funding to counter the pathological challenge.
Briceño additionally highlighted partnership with the Caribbean Community Climate Change Centre (5Cs), which has committed $50 million to enhance farmer resilience against climate variability. “Climate transformation represents our current reality,” he noted. “We’re implementing practical education programs showing agriculturalists adaptation techniques, demonstrating our serious approach through measurable interventions.”
Regarding infrastructure concerns, the Prime Minister acknowledged delayed maintenance on sugar transportation routes due to persistent precipitation that complicates effective roadwork. He assured producers that repair operations are now progressing intensively during the more favorable dry season conditions.