In a significant move to address recent concerns, the Belize Tourism Board (B.T.B.) and the Belize Hotel Association have taken proactive steps to mend the perceived rift between the media and the tourism sector. At a recent meeting with journalists, key industry leaders emphasized the importance of transparency and collaboration, pledging to maintain open communication channels even when addressing challenging issues. Reynaldo Malik, President of the Belize Hotel Association, acknowledged the perception of a disconnect, stating, ‘Perception is nine-tenths of reality. If the media believes there is a separation, we must take it seriously and work to bridge that gap.’ Malik expressed optimism about the event, viewing it as a commitment to a full partnership with the media. Evan Tillett, Director of Tourism, echoed this sentiment, thanking the media for their candid conversation and emphasizing the necessity of mutual respect and accessibility. ‘We must work together and maintain transparency,’ Tillett remarked, highlighting the shared goal of fostering a thriving tourism industry in Belize. This initiative marks a pivotal moment in strengthening the relationship between the media and the tourism sector, ensuring a collaborative approach to future challenges and opportunities.
标签： Belize
伯利兹
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Gillnet and Longline Bust in Belize’s Southern Waters
In a significant victory for marine conservation, Belizean authorities and volunteers have intercepted and destroyed illegal fishing equipment in the country’s southern waters. On Tuesday morning, the Belize Territorial Volunteers discovered a massive Guatemalan gillnet, nearly 400 feet long, illegally placed within Belizean waters near the Sapodilla Cayes. The net, posing a severe threat to marine life, was promptly removed and destroyed. Simultaneously, over three miles of illegal longline gear were seized just five miles from Barranco. The Belize Coast Guard, led by Rear Admiral Elton Bennett, has attributed these successes to increased patrols and intelligence-driven operations along the southern maritime border. Bennett revealed that this year alone, over 45 feet of bill net and 4,000 to 5,000 feet of gillnet have been confiscated, marking a significant reduction in illegal fishing activities compared to the previous year. The Coast Guard has also detained several individuals from Guatemala and Honduras involved in these illegal operations. This latest bust underscores the ongoing challenges and the critical need for constant vigilance to protect Belize’s marine resources.
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Belize Praised as Pioneer in Protected Areas Management
Belize has garnered international acclaim for its innovative approach to conservation, where government agencies and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) collaborate to protect critical ecosystems. This partnership has established a comprehensive network of protected areas spanning both land and sea, ensuring the preservation of biodiversity and access to clean water for local communities. As the International Court of Justice concludes hearings on Guatemala’s attempt to intervene in the Belize-Honduras dispute over the Sapodilla Cayes, Jose Perez, Executive Director of the Association of Protected Areas Management Organizations (APAMO), shared insights on the significance of these efforts and the future of Belize’s conservation initiatives. Perez emphasized the delicate balance between development and environmental preservation, stating, ‘We cannot halt development, but we must recognize the crucial role protected areas play, especially in the face of climate change.’ He highlighted the recent approval of a project operation grant by the Green Climate Fund, a milestone achieved after years of planning since 2019. This funding will support a five-year proposal aimed at assessing the vulnerability of protected areas and implementing strategies to mitigate climate change impacts. Belize, despite its small size, is globally recognized as a pioneer in conservation. Perez noted, ‘When you look at Google Maps, our neighbors often appear brown, while Belize remains green. We are committed to maintaining this distinction.’ APAMO continues to lead governance reforms and collaborative efforts to ensure the sustainability of Belize’s natural heritage for future generations.
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Belize Fund and UB Renew Collaboration Commitments with MOU
On November 26, 2025, the University of Belize (UB) and the Belize Fund for a Sustainable Future (BFSF) solidified their partnership by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). This agreement aims to enhance collaboration in areas such as community capacity building, research, and training, leveraging UB’s longstanding involvement as a board member and early beneficiary of the fund. Dr. Leandra Cho-Ricketts, Executive Director of the BFSF, emphasized the strategic importance of this alliance in advancing conservation efforts across Belize. She highlighted UB’s pivotal role in data collection, analysis, and training, particularly in marine protected area management. The university will also develop targeted programs to address governance gaps in small businesses, fishing associations, and women’s groups, fostering cohesive decision-making and operational efficiency. This partnership underscores a shared commitment to sustainable development and institutional empowerment in Belize.
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BWS Denies MICS7 Claims of Contaminated Water
Belize Water Services (BWS) has addressed public concerns regarding the safety of drinking water following a report from the Statistical Institute of Belize that raised alarms about E. coli contamination. BWS has firmly denied the claims, emphasizing that the findings in the MICS Seven Report lack proper context and do not reflect the actual quality of tap water. The company asserts that the testing methods used in the study did not adhere to internationally recognized standards for water-quality assessment. BWS clarified that the report’s conclusions were not based on samples from its treatment or distribution systems, which are subject to rigorous daily testing and monthly independent checks by regulators. Furthermore, BWS highlighted its participation in international benchmarking to ensure compliance with global standards. The Ministry of Health and Wellness also weighed in, stating that approximately 4,000 water samples are analyzed annually, confirming the safety of the national drinking water supply. Routine microbial monitoring is conducted across various systems, including BWS operations, rudimentary systems, and bottled/purified water facilities, reinforcing the government’s commitment to public health.
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Social Security Board Weighs BEL Investment
In a significant development for Belize’s economy, the Briceño administration’s acquisition of Fortis Belize’s hydro assets and a 33% stake in Belize Electricity Limited (BEL) for $110 million Belize dollars has opened new investment opportunities. The deal, finalized in October 2025, has sparked extensive discussions in both the House and Senate, focusing on environmental concerns and long-term energy security. Prime Minister John Briceño hinted during negotiations that local investors, including the Social Security Board (SSB), were keen to participate. SSB CEO Jerome Palma recently addressed the potential investment, emphasizing the need for thorough due diligence. Palma stated that while the opportunity is promising, the SSB must evaluate the costs, returns, and overall feasibility before committing Belizeans’ retirement savings to the energy sector. He also highlighted the importance of growing reserves and exploring other secure investment avenues, such as municipal bonds and development projects, to ensure consistent returns for the fund. As Belize’s economy expands, the SSB remains committed to identifying practical, secure, and profitable investment opportunities.
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Lee Mark Chang: “No riff between me and Tracy; She’s My Friend”
Lee Mark Chang, the Mesopotamia Area Representative of the United Democratic Party (UDP), has firmly dismissed rumors of internal discord within the party as it approaches its November 30 convention. Addressing speculations of a rift with fellow party member Tracy, Chang labeled such claims as “hogwash” and emphasized their enduring friendship. “There is no riff between me and Tracy; none at all, and none will ever happen. She’s my friend, and we will always be friends,” Chang stated in an interview with News 5. He further clarified that their relationship remains unaffected by political differences. Chang also expressed respect for the party’s decision to allow John Saldivar to contest for the chairmanship, acknowledging that the final decision rests with the voters. The upcoming convention is viewed as a pivotal moment for the UDP to unify after a year marked by public infighting and a disappointing performance in the March 12 general elections. A successful convention could bolster the party’s role as a formidable opposition, holding the Briceño administration accountable on critical national issues. Notably, Panton is vying to become Belize’s first female leader of a major political party, while Moses “Shyne” Barrow has opted out following his electoral losses.
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BTB Welcomes Plans for Floating Boardwalk in Old Capital
The Belize Tourism Board (BTB) has expressed strong support for the proposed floating boardwalk in Belize City, viewing it as a strategic initiative to bolster the city’s appeal to cruise tourists. While the BTB was only involved in the initial discussions, the organization believes the project aligns with its broader vision of transforming Belize City into a premier destination for cruise arrivals. Nicole Usher-Solano, CEO of the Ministry of Tourism, highlighted the city’s pivotal role in the cruise industry and underscored the need for continuous improvements to enhance visitor experiences. She emphasized that the city must be well-prepared to accommodate the growing number of tourists. The development plans extend beyond the Southern Foreshore, with areas like Yarborough and the port vicinity also slated for significant upgrades. Solano noted that any project enhancing the waterfront or creating new attractions is a positive step forward. Although the BTB is no longer actively engaged in the boardwalk discussions, it remains optimistic about the project’s potential to add value to Belize City and reinforce the country’s reputation as a top-tier tourist destination.
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MoHW Says National Drinking Water Remains Safe Despite MICS7 Findings
The Ministry of Health and Wellness (MoHW) in Belize has reaffirmed the safety of the nation’s drinking water, despite preliminary findings from the Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey 7 (MICS7) revealing significant E. coli contamination in household water samples. Conducted by the Statistical Institute of Belize (SIB) under UNICEF’s international standards, the survey detected E. coli in tap water, purified water, and dispenser water across the country. Wendy Benavides, a statistician at SIB, attributed the contamination to unclean water sources or unsanitary storage containers, urging the public to maintain hygiene practices. E. coli exposure can lead to severe health issues, particularly for vulnerable populations. The MoHW, however, emphasized that its extensive national monitoring program, which tests over 4,000 samples annually from various water sources, consistently meets World Health Organization (WHO) safety standards. The Ministry collaborates with local authorities to address isolated issues promptly and is committed to enhancing surveillance and testing technologies. Belizeans are encouraged to rely on official updates for accurate information, as the MoHW assures the public of the water supply’s safety.
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Belize Chairs CARICOM Trade Meeting as Region Advances Key Economic Plans
Hon. Marconi Leal, Belize’s Minister of State for Foreign Trade, spearheaded the nation’s delegation at the 61st Regular Meeting of the Council for Trade and Economic Development (COTED), held on November 20–21, 2025, in Georgetown, Guyana. The event centered on accelerating the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME) and tackling pressing trade and economic challenges across the region. A focal point was the progress toward enabling unrestricted movement of citizens among Barbados, Belize, Dominica, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. Additionally, the meeting addressed trade in goods, including proposed revisions to import duties on Belizean essentials. Member States also greenlit the creation of a regional compost standard, aligning with CARICOM’s sustainability objectives. Belize achieved a significant milestone with regional backing for the Caribbean Sugar Refinery, slated to commence operations by April 2026. This initiative aims to rejuvenate the sugar industry by producing premium, locally refined sugar and minimizing dependence on expensive imports. COTED also acknowledged Belize’s burgeoning trade ties with Guatemala and endorsed its strategy to negotiate an expanded Partial Scope Agreement to enhance economic integration and export competitiveness within CARICOM. Furthermore, Belize secured approval for the certification of its Partial Scope Agreement with El Salvador, paving the way for its formal signing. Minister Leal also engaged in bilateral talks with Jamaican Minister Aubyn Hill, exploring opportunities to boost trade in frozen citrus products. The Belizean delegation included H.E. Gale Miller, High Commissioner to Guyana; Andy Sutherland, Director General for Foreign Trade; Tricia Gideon, Deputy Director General; senior Customs and Excise Department officials; Tricia Soberanis, Deputy Comptroller; and Francis Alfaro, Trade Support Officer.