The Government of Belize has announced an extension of the MSME Tax Amnesty Programme, providing small business owners with additional time to settle their tax obligations and benefit from financial relief. The programme, now extended until December 31, 2025, offers micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) the opportunity to clear outstanding business tax penalties and interest while qualifying for up to one year of tax exemption. This extension aims to ensure that all eligible businesses can process their applications and receive their Tax Amnesty Certificates. The government has also adjusted the schedule for upcoming roadshow sessions to facilitate this process. The San Pedro session will now be held on November 4 at the Lion’s Den, followed by Caye Caulker on November 5 at the Community Center, and Punta Gorda on November 7 at the St Peter Claver Parish Hall. Businesses seeking assistance can contact BELTRAIDE’s Small Business Development Center or the Investment Policy and Compliance Unit. This initiative underscores the government’s commitment to supporting small businesses and fostering economic recovery.
作者： admin
-
New Tourism Project Near Sarteneja Gets Green Light
A groundbreaking tourism and housing initiative near Sarteneja Village in Corozal has received official approval from Belize’s Department of the Environment. The project, spearheaded by Sarteneja South Winds Limited, will proceed under stringent environmental and social safeguards to preserve the region’s natural resources and cultural heritage. While only Phase 1 has been greenlit, subsequent phases will require additional approvals contingent on the developers’ adherence to established regulations.
Sarteneja South Winds Limited, a Belizean-registered company established in 2012, is backed by international investors and remains in good legal standing. The development is primarily targeted at foreign retirees and investors but will also offer benefits to local residents.
To ensure sustainability, the project mandates the use of a deep aquifer for water supply, separate from the community’s source, to prevent shortages. Additionally, a solar farm will be constructed in Phase 2 to alleviate strain on the national power grid. Certain ecologically sensitive areas, such as the third canal near Cayo Falso, will remain untouched and designated as private nature reserves. Traditional fishing spots will also be preserved for community use.
Environmental protection measures include a ban on septic tanks for homes, archaeological monitoring during construction, and a performance bond to ensure compliance with the project’s guidelines. This development aims to balance economic growth with environmental stewardship and community well-being.
-
‘CCRAF on the Road’ brings regional agriculture movement to Saint Lucia
The Caribbean Climate Resilience and Agriculture Forum (CCRAF) has launched its first on-the-ground initiative, ‘CCRAF on the Road,’ in Saint Lucia, marking a significant shift from virtual engagements to direct community interactions. The week-long event, which began on October 20, is part of CCRAF’s 10th anniversary celebrations and is organized by the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA). The initiative aims to promote climate-smart farming and community resilience through a series of activities, including school visits, technical exchanges, policy dialogues, and youth engagement. Gregg Rawlins, IICA’s representative to the OECS and Eastern Caribbean States, emphasized the importance of this hands-on approach, stating, ‘We’re not just sharing knowledge — we’re taking the process to the ground, to people on the ground.’ The program also focuses on building regional networks and showcasing local innovations that advance Saint Lucia’s resilience goals. Dr. Chaney St Martin, CCRAF coordinator, highlighted the initiative’s community-driven approach, noting the need for more action and less talk. The Saint Lucia leg of the tour is supported by various sponsors and partners, including the World University Service of Canada and the Caribbean Confederation of Credit Unions. Bradley St Ange, permanent secretary in the Ministry of Agriculture, underscored the importance of engaging youth in agriculture, given the aging farmer population. Following Saint Lucia, the CCRAF on the Road tour will continue to St Vincent and the Grenadines and Dominica, expanding its outreach across the Eastern Caribbean.
-
Sanae Takaichi schrijft geschiedenis als eerste vrouwelijke premier van Japan
Sanae Takaichi has been elected as Japan’s first female prime minister, marking a historic milestone in the nation’s political landscape. The 63-year-old conservative hardliner secured her position through a decisive vote within the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), which holds a majority in parliament. Takaichi, a former Minister of Internal Affairs and Communications and a close ally of the late Shinzo Abe, is renowned for her staunch advocacy of national security, traditional family values, and economic revitalization through technological innovation. In her inaugural address, Takaichi emphasized a vision of ‘continuity with reform,’ pledging to bolster Japan’s defense capabilities amid escalating tensions with China and North Korea. Simultaneously, she vowed to prioritize economic issues such as purchasing power, digital transformation, and family support in a nation grappling with aging demographics and declining birth rates. Her election shatters Japan’s long-criticized male-dominated power structure, with Takaichi asserting that ‘women in leadership should not be an exception but the norm.’
-
Princess Hotel Says It remains ‘Open and Fully Operational’
In a recent development, the Princess Casino Belize City has issued a statement affirming its operational status following confusion caused by the Belize Tourism Board’s (BTB) announcement of the closure of the Ramada Belize City Princess Hotel. The casino management emphasized that it remains open and fully operational, continuing to provide a safe and enjoyable experience for its patrons. This clarification comes in response to the BTB’s decision to close the hotel under Section 28(2)(b) of the Hotel and Tourist Accommodation Act, which allows for the cancellation of a license or closure of a hotel due to the proprietor’s failure to obtain or renew a license. The BTB’s notice was published on October 17, 2025, leading to public uncertainty. The casino’s statement aims to reassure customers and the general public of its uninterrupted services and commitment to excellence in entertainment.
-
School Panorama Returns to Sir Vivian Richards Stadium
The highly anticipated ACB Caribbean National School Panorama competition is set to make a grand return to the Sir Vivian Richards Cricket Stadium this year, marking a shift from its previous venue at the St John’s Port parking lot, where it was held for the past two editions. This change in location comes in response to the growing number of participating bands, with sixteen schools confirmed to showcase their talents this Saturday. The event will feature six primary and ten secondary schools vying for the prestigious titles. Notably, Pigotts Primary, last year’s champion, will not be participating this year, paving the way for a new victor to emerge. The competition will kick off with Bendals Primary, a newcomer, performing ‘Swinging Engine’ by Burning Flames. They will be followed by TN Kirnon, Sunnyside Tutorial, Villa Primary, Nelvie N. Gore, and Green Bay Primary. In the secondary school category, St Anthony’s Secondary will open with ‘A Plus Wine’ by Young Lyrics, succeeded by St Joseph’s Academy, Ottos Comprehensive, All Saints Secondary, and Irene B. Williams Secondary. Defending champions Princess Margaret School will take the stage with ‘Cape’ by Empress, while Antigua Grammar School and Clare Hall Secondary will pay tribute to the late Ricardo Drue and Empress with their performances. The event will conclude with performances by newcomers Sir Novelle Richards Academy and Christ the King High School. The competition is scheduled to begin at 4pm, with ticket prices set at EC$20 for adults and EC$5 for children.
-
‘Every Woman and Child Deserves Safety’
The devastating deaths of 35-year-old Angelita Magaña and her six-year-old son, Tishan Godoy, in a suspected arson attack have reignited urgent calls to address gender-based violence in Belize. Authorities believe the fire was deliberately set by Magaña’s ex-partner, Francisco Godoy, who had recently been released from prison after serving time for domestic violence against her. Magaña had sought a restraining order just days before the incident but was unable to secure one due to timing constraints, according to Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Stacy Smith.
The Ministry of Human Development, the Office of the Special Envoy for the Development of Families and Children, and the National Women’s Commission issued a joint statement condemning the act as “an appalling case of femicide.” The agencies expressed profound sorrow and outrage, emphasizing that the tragedy underscores the persistent and devastating impact of gender-based violence in the country.
In their statement, the government partners called for a collective national response to end violence against women and children, urging communities to foster a culture of zero tolerance. They also reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening protection systems and reminded the public that help is available for those in need. “Every woman and child deserves to live in safety, dignity, and peace,” the statement declared.
This incident has highlighted the urgent need for systemic changes and greater community involvement to combat domestic violence and ensure the safety of vulnerable individuals.
-
STATEMENT: Sen. Delbert Paris calls for ‘Immediate revocation of SRO No. 39 of 2025 to protect citizens’ right to vote’
In a bold move to protect democratic rights, Hon. Delbert R. Paris has formally requested the Chairman of the Electoral Commission of Dominica to revoke Statutory Rule and Order (SRO) No. 39 of 2025. This controversial regulation limits acceptable forms of identification for voter registration and confirmation to passports, driver’s licenses, and social security cards, effectively disenfranchising thousands of Dominican citizens.
-
Joseph Calls for Stronger Regulation and Investment in Midwifery Workforce
Sir Molwyn Joseph, Antigua and Barbuda’s Health Minister, has emphasized the urgent need for robust regulatory reforms and increased investment in the nation’s midwifery workforce. Addressing attendees at the opening of a two-day Competency-Based Education Capacity-Building Workshop for Midwifery Educators, Joseph highlighted that while educational initiatives are crucial, they must be complemented by comprehensive policy measures and institutional support. He stressed that achieving safer motherhood and improved newborn care extends beyond training programs, requiring substantial investment in human resources, reinforced regulatory frameworks, and an enabling environment for midwives to fully utilize their expertise. The minister underscored the workshop’s significance in empowering educators to shape the future of midwifery, aligning with international standards such as the International Confederation of Midwives’ Essential Competencies (2019). Joseph reiterated that maternal and newborn health remains a national priority, essential for social equity, human dignity, and national development. He emphasized the importance of ensuring every woman has access to safe, high-quality care during pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum, while midwives are empowered, supported, and respected in their roles. The minister also acknowledged the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and the Caribbean Regional Midwives Association for their technical and resource contributions, which have bolstered systems, curricula, and capacity in Antigua and Barbuda. The workshop, a collaboration between the Ministry of Health and UNFPA, focuses on competency-based education (CBE), a practical training model designed to equip midwives with the skills, confidence, and compassion needed to address real-world challenges. Joseph concluded by reaffirming the government’s commitment to collaborating with partners to provide midwives with the necessary policy, resources, and institutional support to practice effectively and contribute to national development.
-
Maduro says Venezuela has 5,000 Russian anti-aircraft missiles to counter US
CARACAS, Venezuela — In a bold move to counter escalating tensions with the United States, Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro announced on Wednesday that the nation has acquired 5,000 Russian-made Igla-S man-portable surface-to-air missiles. These short-range missiles, designed to target low-flying aircraft, have been strategically positioned across key air defense locations to ensure national security and peace, Maduro stated during a televised ceremony with senior military officials.
The announcement comes in response to the US military’s recent deployment of stealth warplanes and Navy ships in the Caribbean, which Washington claims are part of counter-narcotics operations. However, Venezuela views these actions as a prelude to a potential operation aimed at ousting Maduro, whom the US accuses of leading a drug cartel. The US has already destroyed at least eight vessels allegedly smuggling drugs from Venezuela to the United States.
The Igla-S missiles have been integrated into military exercises ordered by Maduro, reflecting Venezuela’s readiness to defend its sovereignty. This development has further inflamed regional tensions, with Latin American leaders expressing outrage over the US military presence. The Pentagon has labeled Latin American drug cartels as terrorist groups and described suspected smugglers as ‘unlawful combatants,’ justifying its aggressive stance.
Meanwhile, diplomatic relations between Colombia and the US have soured, with Colombia recalling its ambassador to Washington following a heated exchange between Colombian President Gustavo Petro and US President Donald Trump. Trump defended the US deployment, claiming it has significantly reduced drug trafficking by sea and is prepared to extend operations to land-based traffickers.
Experts warn that the US’s summary killings of suspected traffickers, even if confirmed, may violate international law. As tensions continue to rise, the region braces for further geopolitical instability.