The Belizean government is making significant strides in modernizing its national bus system, with Transport Minister Dr. Louis Zabaneh announcing the acquisition of 150 new buses. This initiative is part of a broader effort to enhance public transportation and improve commuter experiences. Dr. Zabaneh recently concluded an official visit to Taiwan and South Korea, where he, alongside Energy Minister Michel Chebat, engaged with bus manufacturers and studied advanced inter-city transit systems. The visit aimed to gather insights and determine the optimal bus mix for the new public-private partnership (PPP) being formed. Dr. Zabaneh highlighted that international manufacturers are receptive to Belize’s proposal, which will replace the current fleet used by 21 bus operators who have voluntarily joined the PPP. Drawing parallels with Taiwan’s experience in 2002, Dr. Zabaneh noted the similarities in challenges faced and the solutions implemented. The ministry is adhering to Cabinet’s timeline, with plans to finalize PPP participants by year-end and present the first draft of the PPP agreement and protective legislation by the next Cabinet meeting. The National Bus Consolidation Pro Tempore Advisory Committee is actively advancing the transition, with 71% of operators on board and audits underway to prepare an opening balance sheet by mid-November. The new Consolidated National Bus Company is set to commence operations on January 1, 2026, ensuring a transparent and efficient transition.