The residents of Caye Caulker are gearing up for a pivotal referendum on October 8, 2025, which will determine whether the government can establish a marijuana industry on the island. This vote has ignited intense discussions about the island’s future, particularly its reputation as a family-friendly tourist haven. The central question on the ballot is whether cannabis cultivation should be permitted, a proposal that has divided the community. Proponents argue that the move could stimulate economic growth and create new opportunities, while detractors fear it could disrupt the island’s tranquil, family-oriented ambiance and negatively impact tourism. Senator Luis Wade has publicly opposed the measure, cautioning that a marijuana industry could erode the island’s unique character. Celina Jimenez, a local resident spearheading the “No Campaign,” has warned that tourism groups bringing hundreds of visitors annually might cease their operations if cannabis is legalized. On the other side, Councillor Ilya Rosado, leading the “Yes Campaign,” has stressed the importance of education and transparency, urging residents to base their decisions on factual information. Hon. Kareem Musa, Minister of Home Affairs and New Growth Industries, has called for mutual respect among voters, noting that cannabis possession has been legal in Belize since 2017. The referendum will solely determine whether regulations for cultivation should be established. The outcome of this vote is anticipated to significantly influence the future identity and economic trajectory of Caye Caulker.
标签： Belize
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Marine Exports See Boost in August 2025
Belize’s export performance in August 2025 remained largely stagnant, with marine products emerging as the sole standout in an otherwise flat trade landscape, according to the Statistical Institute of Belize (SIB). The SIB reported a significant $1.3 million increase in marine export revenues, climbing from $4.5 million in August 2024 to $5.7 million this year. This growth was primarily driven by heightened international demand for lobster meat, a key foreign exchange generator for the nation. Marine exports, encompassing shrimp, conch, whole lobster, and various fish species, have traditionally been a cornerstone of Belize’s export economy. However, the sector has encountered persistent challenges in recent years, including the collapse of the farmed shrimp industry and intensifying competition in global seafood markets. Despite these obstacles, lobster continues to hold its ground as a prized commodity, with steady demand from markets in the United States and Europe. The recent revenue boost signals a potential recovery for the industry, which plays a vital role in supporting the livelihoods of coastal communities and small-scale fishers across Belize.
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Police Crackdown on Unauthorized Engagement with External Agencies
The Belize Police Department has introduced a stringent new policy emphasizing the importance of adhering to the chain of command when collaborating with external agencies during investigations. Issued on September 25, 2025, and signed by the Commissioner of Police, the directive mandates that no officer may engage with outside entities—such as Customs, Immigration, or the Income Tax Department—without prior approval from the Commissioner’s Office or an authorized representative. This rule is effective immediately and applies to all scenarios involving the transfer of items, individuals, or sensitive information to external bodies. The directive leaves no ambiguity: any violation must be reported in writing, detailing the officer’s authorization source and the disciplinary measures taken. The Commissioner underscored the policy’s importance, stating, ‘The Chain of Command must be strictly respected and upheld. Non-compliance will not be tolerated.’ The policy aims to prevent unauthorized actions that could disrupt investigations, create confusion, or undermine the Police Department’s authority. By requiring approval, the Department ensures accountability and careful handling of sensitive matters. Additionally, the directive safeguards the Department against allegations of corruption, favoritism, or procedural irregularities, establishing a uniform standard for all officers. While the policy may introduce delays in operations due to the need for clearance, it is designed to foster discipline and mitigate risks. For officers, it serves as a clear reminder that adherence to the chain of command is not optional but mandatory.
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Food, Rent, and Gas Push Inflation Up 0.8% in August; Fuel Prices Ease Burden
In August 2025, Belizeans experienced a mixed economic landscape as rising costs in essential sectors like food, housing, and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) were partially offset by declining fuel prices, resulting in an overall inflation rate of 0.8 percent compared to the previous year. According to the Statistical Institute of Belize, the Consumer Price Index (CPI) rose to 120.7, up from 119.7 in August 2024. The most significant contributors to this increase were the ‘Housing, Water, Electricity, Gas and Other Fuels’ category, which surged by 2.4 percent, and ‘Food and Non-Alcoholic Beverages,’ which climbed by 1.6 percent. Together, these categories represent nearly half of household expenditures, amplifying their impact on consumers. Housing costs were driven by a $12.24 year-over-year increase in the price of a hundred-pound LPG cylinder, reaching $130.04, alongside a 1.7 percent rise in home rental prices. Food inflation was fueled by higher prices for bread, bakery products, and meats, with beef steak and chicken breast prices soaring by 10.7 and 8.5 percent, respectively. Non-alcoholic beverages also saw a 4.4 percent increase, primarily due to higher costs for purified water, juices, and soft drinks. Additional notable price hikes included health services (up 3.8 percent), restaurants and accommodation (up 2.8 percent), and personal care items like deodorants and lotions (up 1.7 percent). Alcoholic beverages and tobacco rose by 2.6 percent, led by cigarette prices. However, these increases were partially mitigated by a 2.5 percent decline in transport costs, driven by lower gasoline and diesel prices. Regular gasoline dropped by $0.90 per gallon, diesel by $0.67, and premium gasoline by $0.62. Information and communication costs also fell by 1.5 percent, reflecting cheaper cell phones. Inflation varied significantly across municipalities, with Punta Gorda experiencing the steepest rise at 2.7 percent due to broad-based increases in food, LPG, and personal care items. In contrast, Orange Walk recorded a slight decline of -0.2 percent, benefiting from lower fuel, garment, and vegetable prices. Month-to-month, consumer prices increased by 0.2 percent between July and August 2025, primarily due to higher diesel, vehicle, and restaurant costs. Year-to-date inflation for the first eight months of 2025 stood at 1.3 percent, largely influenced by rising food, housing, and personal care expenses, while transport and communication costs trended downward.
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Belize Police Department Rolls Out Online Criminal Record Application System
For years, obtaining a police record in Belize was synonymous with enduring lengthy queues at local police stations. This document, formally referred to as a record of conduct, is a prerequisite for various activities, including job applications, scholarships, professional licensing, and certain travel procedures. However, the process was often burdensome, particularly for residents in rural areas, who faced significant time, cost, and logistical challenges.