In a decisive move addressing nationwide apprehensions over telecommunications affordability, the Belizean government has announced a comprehensive twelve-month freeze on all internet and telecommunications service rates. Prime Minister John Briceño revealed the policy on January 16, 2026, confirming the Public Utilities Commission (PUC) will implement the measure regardless of whether the proposed industry consolidation moves forward.
The regulatory intervention comes amid public debate over potential market changes and their impact on consumer pricing. Minister Michel Chebat has directed the PUC to draft a statutory instrument (SI) formalizing the rate freeze, with signing expected imminently next week.
Prime Minister Briceño emphasized the necessity of infrastructure investment in the rapidly evolving technology sector while affirming the government’s commitment to consumer protection. “Technology changes so it’s a lot of investment that have to take place to be able to keep up,” stated Briceño, “and that is where the Public Utilities Commission comes in.”
The Prime Minister further indicated this action might signal a broader regulatory shift, suggesting the telecommunications sector could eventually face similar oversight mechanisms currently applied to utilities like water and energy. This development represents a significant governmental stance on market regulation amid technological advancement and corporate consolidation possibilities.