分类： business

In a recent address, Andrew Marshalleck, Chairman of Belize Electricity Limited (BEL), shed light on the recurring phenomenon of utilities oscillating between public and private ownership across the Caribbean and Central America. Marshalleck, an Attorney-At-Law, emphasized that this cycle is not unique to Belize but is a regional trend observed in critical sectors such as water, telecommunications, and energy. He cited examples like the Belize Water Services (BWS), Belize Telemedia Limited (BTL), and BEL itself, which have all experienced shifts in ownership over time. Marshalleck explained that this cycle is driven by two primary factors: equality and efficiency. While privatization often prioritizes profitability, nationalization considers broader societal benefits. He noted that this dynamic is particularly evident in the case of natural resources and infrastructure, such as dams and ports, which have also seen ownership changes. Marshalleck’s insights provide a deeper understanding of the economic and social forces shaping the region’s utility sectors.

In a significant move to support small businesses, the Government of Belize has announced the extension of the MSME Tax Amnesty Program until December 31, 2025. The decision, confirmed during a Special Sitting of the House of Representatives on October 17, 2025, aims to provide micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) with additional time to address outstanding tax liabilities and penalties. Under this program, eligible businesses can clear their dues and even qualify for up to one year of business tax exemption. The extension also ensures that pending applications from previous roadshow stops are processed efficiently, allowing all qualifying businesses to receive their Tax Amnesty Certificates. Government officials are encouraging MSMEs to seize this opportunity to formalize their operations and foster sustainable growth. This initiative underscores the government’s commitment to bolstering the small business sector, which plays a vital role in the nation’s economy.

The Central America Travel Market (CATM) 2025, held in San Pedro Sula, Honduras, has emerged as a pivotal platform for showcasing the region’s tourism potential. This year’s event, hosted by Honduras, brought together tourism authorities, international buyers, media representatives, and private sector leaders with a shared goal: to position Central America as a unified, must-visit destination. The event highlighted the region’s vibrant and diverse tourism offerings, emphasizing multi-destination travel experiences that span across countries like Belize, El Salvador, Guatemala, Nicaragua, and Panama. Reizel Vilorio, Honduras’ Vice Minister of Tourism, expressed pride in hosting the event, noting the opportunity to showcase the country’s hospitality and its commitment to regional tourism growth. The event featured business-to-business meetings, pre-tours for international buyers, and discussions on overcoming challenges such as the inconsistent enforcement of the CA-4 treaty, which facilitates free movement across the region. Vilorio emphasized the need for greater collaboration among Central American countries to create complementary tourism packages, encouraging visitors to extend their stays and maximize economic benefits for the region.

The Government of Belize has officially prolonged the MSME Tax Amnesty Programme until December 31, 2025, as revealed during a Special Sitting of the House of Representatives on October 17. This initiative, spearheaded by the Office of the Prime Minister in collaboration with BELTRAIDE, the Investment Policy and Compliance Unit (IPCU), the Belize Tax Service (BTS), the Belize Companies and Corporate Affairs Registry (BCCAR), the Economic Development Council (EDC), and the Ministry of Local Government and City and Town Councils, aims to provide small businesses with extended opportunities to benefit from significant tax relief measures. The extension allows eligible Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) additional time to settle outstanding business tax penalties and interest, and to qualify for up to one year of business tax exemption. It also ensures the processing of pending applications from previous Roadshow events, guaranteeing that all qualified MSMEs receive their Tax Amnesty Certificates. The next Tax Amnesty Roadshow event is scheduled for October 27 at the Belmopan Civic Center, with adjusted dates for San Pedro (November 4), Caye Caulker (November 5), and Punta Gorda (November 7) to maximize participation. The Government has commended the numerous MSMEs that have already enrolled in the programme, taking crucial steps toward formalizing and expanding their businesses. For further details, business owners can reach out to BELTRAIDE’s Small Business Development Center (SBDC Belize) at 280-3195 or sbdc@beltraide.bz, or the Investment Policy and Compliance Unit (IPCU) at 880-4728 / 880-4729 or belizeInvestment@invest.gov.bz.

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.