Belize’s agricultural sector stands on the brink of a significant transformation following the establishment of a groundbreaking partnership between its Ministry of Agriculture and Taiwan. This four-year, multimillion-dollar collaboration centers on the creation of an advanced food processing and incubation facility designed to elevate local farming practices and economic outcomes.
The strategic initiative, valued at $5 million USD, features substantial financial backing from Taiwan, which contributed approximately 90% ($4.5 million) of the total project cost, with Belize’s government providing the remaining $500,000. The facility will be established at Central Farm in the Cayo District, serving as a centralized hub for converting raw agricultural produce into value-added products.
Minister of Agriculture, Food Security and New Growth Industries Rodwell Ferguson revealed that the project emerged from two years of diplomatic discussions between the nations. “They made contact with us and said they were successful in making sure that we get this facility,” Ferguson stated, emphasizing the significance of Taiwan’s technological contribution alongside its financial investment.
The processing center will implement advanced agricultural innovation techniques developed through Taiwan’s decades of expertise in agro-processing. While farmers in the Cayo district are expected to benefit most directly due to proximity, Minister Ferguson confirmed that transportation systems will be established to move produce from across the country to the facility.
Infrastructure preparation and equipment installation are scheduled for completion within the next two to three months, after which the center will begin operations. The project represents a strategic move toward strengthening Belize’s agricultural value chain, enhancing farmer livelihoods, and propelling the nation’s agri-industry into its next developmental phase through technological transfer and economic diversification.