AGP Executive Report

Electricity & Cost of Living: BEL says its arrears to Mexico’s CFE have eased from about $55M in January to roughly $30M, but around $20M is still overdue, while it points to high generation costs and COPA adjustments that won’t fully close the gap. Billing Complaints: BEL also says unusually high bill complaints are rising, but it’s found case-by-case causes like higher consumption, longer billing periods, estimated meter catch-ups after meter changes, arrears, and meter-reading issues—customers can request payment plans. Energy Transition: Government is advancing two solar projects to cut imported power: a Saudi Fund for Development-backed redesign (40MW solar + 20MW battery) and an IFC-supported push for up to 80MW via private developers. Tourism Tax Fight: Opposition leaders warn a proposed jump in the hotel accommodation tax from 9% to 12% could hurt Belize tourism and small businesses, calling for published analysis and stakeholder consultation. MSME Funding: Belize and Taiwan signed phase 2 of the Women and Youth MSMEs project, adding US$3M to support women and young entrepreneurs from 2026–2030. Public Transport Overhaul: A new Public Transportation Investment Bill would formalize investment in the National Bus Company and support modernization, including a gradual move toward electric buses. Climate Preparedness: Belize Climate Week 2026 kicked off with a focus on innovation, technology, and inclusion in climate action, tied to the Climate Change and Carbon Market Initiatives Act 2026.

Electricity & Cost of Living: BEL says it has cut its arrears to Mexico’s CFE from about US$55m in January to roughly US$30m, but around US$20m is still overdue, as diesel and generation costs keep running ahead of what customers pay. Power Bills Explained: BEL also admits complaints are unusually high, pointing to hotter weather driving higher consumption, longer billing periods, estimated-to-actual catch-ups after meter changes, and occasional arrears or delayed payments. Solar Push: Government is advancing two solar projects to reduce imported power—one redesigned with 40MW solar plus 20MW battery storage under the Saudi Fund for Development, and another up to 80MW via BEL and the IFC. Tax & Tourism: The UDP rejects a proposed rise in hotel accommodation tax from 9% to 12%, warning it could hurt competitiveness and spill over to tourism-linked small businesses. Public Transport Investment: A new Public Transportation Investment Bill would formalize Government funding for the National Bus Company and support modernization, including a gradual move toward electric buses. MSME Support: Belize and Taiwan signed phase 2 of the Women and Youth MSMEs project, adding US$3m to back women- and youth-led enterprises from 2026–2030. Public Sector Tensions: The PSU raised concerns about the cost of transforming the Belize Tax Service into SARA, while NTUCB submitted demands to Prime Minister Briceño tied to accountability and meeting schedules.

Tourism Tax Debate: Opposition Leader Tracy Panton says Belize Tourism Board’s push to raise the hotel accommodation tax from 9% to 12% could dampen bookings and hit small businesses hardest, urging published projections and an independent audit of the $50M tourism bond. Cost of Living Pressure: Diesel is now the priciest fuel at the pump, reinforcing how fuel costs feed into broader inflation; meanwhile PM Briceño reiterated government’s limited control over imported prices and warned that bigger minimum-wage jumps could trigger layoffs and higher inflation. Electricity Rates & Energy Supply: BEL’s new monthly power adjustment is driving higher bills, while the PM blamed the crisis on years of underinvestment and said new suppliers could come online within months. Public Finance Scrutiny: Panton questioned a US$100M Taiwan loan, asking what the first US$40M drawdown will fund and what safeguards exist. Health & Medicines Oversight: The Ministry of Health, with PAHO support, operationalised a National Post-Market Surveillance System to better track medicine and vaccine safety and quality. Climate & Innovation: Belize’s Climate Week 2026 kicked off in Punta Gorda, with BELTRAIDE highlighting creatives and entrepreneurs under the Orange Economy push. Transport Transition: Terminal workers face decisions as the National Bus Company transition advances, with 56 workers weighing reemployment options. Diplomacy & Regional Ties: PM Briceño began an official visit to Honduras to strengthen cooperation, including health-sector talks. Jobs & Skills: Office Gurus is hiring in Belmopan for sales roles, requiring at least six months’ sales experience.

Electricity & Cost of Living: Prime Minister John Briceño says Belize’s power crisis stems from years of underinvestment, with BEL buying costly electricity during peak shortages and selling at a loss; he also reiterated that further minimum-wage moves to $6 must be timed with what businesses can absorb. Minimum Wage Debate: Opposition and unions keep pushing for faster relief as households report higher bills, fuel and transport strain. Parliament & Public Finance: Opposition Leader Tracy Panton questions a US$100M Taiwan loan, asking what the first US$40M drawdown will fund and demanding safeguards. Revenue Authority Bill: The Revenue Authority Bill returns for second reading amid Public Service Union concerns over process and governance. Transport Restructuring: Government advances the Public Transportation Investment Bill as a bus shutdown looms; 56 terminal workers face decisions tied to the National Bus Company transition. Health Regulation: Belize operationalises a National Post-Market Surveillance System for medicines and vaccines with PAHO support. Climate Week 2026: Belize’s Climate Week kicks off in Punta Gorda, with BELTRAIDE highlighting creatives and entrepreneurs under the Orange Economy push. Diplomacy: The US nominates André Bauer as ambassador to Belize, pending Senate confirmation. Local Business/Legal: Jun’s Shop faces court action after Belize City Council issues a stop order and removes the booth. Crime: Police investigate a Puma gas station robbery in Belize City where about BZ$30,000 was stolen.

Electricity & Cost of Living: Prime Minister John Briceño says Belize’s power crisis stems from years of underinvestment and that BEL has been buying costly electricity on peak hours, while consumers feel the latest 1.5 cents/kWh increase; UDP calls for a rollback and questions the $400M infrastructure spend. Minimum Wage Debate: Briceño reiterates support for lifting the wage to $6, but says timing must reflect business capacity to avoid layoffs and added inflation. Public Transport Transition: The Ministry of Transport advances the National Bus Company overhaul as 56 terminal workers weigh options, while bus operators warn of a possible shutdown over diesel costs; Parliament also considers a Public Transportation Investment Bill. Governance & Finance: Opposition Leader Tracy Panton questions a US$100M Taiwan EXIM loan’s use; the House reviews an IDB US$8M civil service modernization loan and the Revenue Authority Bill amid PSU concerns. Health & Consumer Safety: Belize moves to operationalize a National Post-Market Surveillance System for medicines and vaccines with PAHO support, including tracking suspected substandard and fake products. Climate & Tourism Economy: Belize’s Climate Week 2026 kicks off in Punta Gorda with a focus on innovation, carbon market policy, and the “Orange Economy,” with BELTRAIDE showcasing local entrepreneurs. Conservation: Government signs a strengthened Turneffe Conservation Land Trust agreement to protect about 17,000 acres and key flats-fishing habitats. Diplomacy: André Bauer is sworn in as U.S. Ambassador to Belize, pending Senate confirmation steps. Business & Jobs: Office Gurus seeks sales staff in Belmopan; Belize Accounting and Financial Services hires a work-from-home Spanish-English interpreter. Security: Police investigate a Puma gas station robbery in Belize City where about BZ$30,000 was stolen.

Climate Action & Policy: Belize Climate Week 2026 kicked off in Punta Gorda on Aug. 21 and runs to Aug. 24, with a focus on innovation, resilience, and inclusion, and a spotlight on the Climate Change and Carbon Market Initiatives Act 2026. Entrepreneurship & Tourism Economy: BELTRAIDE is using Orange Economy Day to showcase Belizean creatives and entrepreneurs, linking culture with market access and export readiness. Cost of Living & Power Bills: Prime Minister John Briceño says electricity and fuel pressures are largely outside government control, while defending the pace of minimum-wage talks and pointing to tax and social support measures. Energy Sector Accountability: The UDP is demanding a rollback of the latest 1.5 cents/kWh electricity increase, questioning consumer benefit after major power investments. Transport Jobs & Service Risk: With the National Bus Company transition underway, 56 terminal workers face employment decisions, while bus operators warn of a possible shutdown over diesel costs. Public Finance & Oversight: Opposition Leader Tracy Panton questions a US$100m Taiwan loan’s use, and the House is set to consider an IDB US$8m civil service modernization loan. Business & Community Development: San Pedro plans a multipurpose municipal market complex, and the Belize Tourism Board launched an online “Belize Specialist” training for travel advisors. Security & Crime: Police report an armed break-in at a Belize City Puma gas station, with about BZ$30,000 stolen.

Cost of Living & Wages: PM John Briceño faced fresh backlash as electricity bills rise and fuel stays high, repeating that government has limited control over imported prices while urging caution on a faster jump to the $6 minimum wage. Electricity & Transport Pressure: BEL’s latest 1.5-cent/kWh increase is tied to power-purchase costs, while bus operators warn of a diesel-driven shutdown risk; Transport is pushing ahead with the Public Transportation Investment Bill as workers weigh options in the National Bus Company transition. Energy Governance Debate: The UDP says the latest rate hike should be rolled back and questions the consumer benefit from nearly $400m in power investments; unions also press for accountability on stalled revenue and whistleblower reforms. Public Finance & Loans: Opposition Leader Tracy Panton questions a US$100m Taiwan Exim loan’s first drawdown and safeguards; the House also considers an IDB US$8m civil service modernization loan. Conservation & Data for Planning: Belize signed a Turneffe Atoll protection agreement covering ~17,000 acres, and IOM launched a digital Community Profile Information System for 194 communities. Diplomacy & Business Links: André Bauer was sworn in as the new U.S. Ambassador-designate to Belize, while UK-Belize talks focused on sustainable finance and climate resilience.

Electricity & Cost of Living: Prime Minister John Briceño says BEL’s 1.5 cents per kWh increase reflects a real power shortage during peak hours and years of underinvestment, while also warning that any relief and future power-supplier additions could take months. Minimum Wage: He reiterated support for raising the minimum wage to $6, but said timing must consider business capacity to avoid layoffs and more inflation. Public Transport Overhaul: With a bus shutdown looming Monday, the Transport Minister defended the Public Transportation Investment Bill and the National Bus Company restructuring, while the Bus Association warned operators may stop services over unsustainable diesel costs; meanwhile, 56 terminal workers are being offered options as the transition advances. Governance & Public Finance: Opposition Leader Tracy Panton questioned a proposed US$100m Taiwan loan, demanding clarity on how funds will be used; the Revenue Authority Bill returns for second reading amid Public Service Union concerns. Conservation & Tourism Economy: Government signed a Turneffe Atoll conservation agreement protecting about 17,000 acres and key flats-fishing habitats; the Belize Tourism Board launched an online “Belize Specialist” training for travel advisors. Business & Community: Belize Hotel Association awarded educational grants to 15 students; San Pedro plans a multipurpose market complex; E-VOLUTION launched an electric taxi program. Diplomacy: André Bauer was sworn in as the new U.S. Ambassador to Belize.

Pageant Fallout: Miss Universe Belize 2026 was rocked by production and organizational problems, including a Tikal backdrop mix-up, limited public promotion, and backstage complaints—leading to National Director Destiny Wagner’s resignation. Public Finance & Jobs: The Revenue Authority Bill returns for a second reading as unions question checks and balances and public officers worry about governance. Civil Service Modernization: MPs will consider an IDB US$8m loan (US$9m total with GOB share) to modernize HR systems and wage-bill management. Energy Costs: BEL’s new monthly Cost of Power Adjustment (COPA) kicks in, with most customers facing an added 1.5 cents per kWh on bills. Conservation & “Blue Economy”: Belize signed a Turneffe Atoll conservation agreement securing about 17,000 acres in an irrevocable trust and strengthening flats-fishing habitat protection. Security & Crime: Police are investigating an armed robbery at a Puma gas station in Belize City where about BZ$30,000 was stolen. Transport Pressure: Bus operators warn of a possible nationwide shutdown from Aug 24 over unsustainable diesel costs. Diplomacy: André Bauer was sworn in as the new U.S. Ambassador to Belize. Tourism Skills: BTB launched an online “Belize Specialist” training for travel advisors. Community Data: IOM and the Rural Transformation Ministry rolled out a digital Community Profile Information System covering 194 communities.

Diplomacy: Former South Carolina Lt. Gov. André Bauer was sworn in as the new U.S. Ambassador to Belize, with the embassy saying he’ll focus on strengthening ties across trade, security, immigration and development. Transport Costs: The Belize Bus Association warns operators may suspend nationwide service from Monday, Aug. 24, blaming unsustainable diesel costs after the diesel subsidy expired. Anti-Corruption & Governance: Union senator Glenfield Dennison pressed government on the lack of active enforcement of the Civil Asset Recovery and Unexplained Wealth Act and urged the stalled Protected Disclosures (whistleblower) bill be revived. Electricity Bills: Belize Electricity Limited will apply a new monthly Cost of Power Adjustment, adding up to 1.5 cents per kWh to many customers’ bills. Tourism & Skills: BTB launched an online “Belize Specialist” training for travel advisors, while San Pedro is planning a multipurpose market complex at Saca Chispas. Sustainability & Data: IOM and the Ministry launched an online Community Profile Information System covering 194 communities, and government secured a landmark Turneffe Atoll protection agreement.

BTL/Telecom Governance: Unions have escalated pressure on Belize Telemedia (BTL), calling for the immediate removal of Chairman Mark Lizarraga and changes to the Public Utilities Commission’s structure after the Cabinet rejected the proposed BTL–Speednet acquisition; PM Briceño challenged the unions’ basis for dismissal and said the government will “take a look” at the 90-day demands. Electricity Costs: Belize Electricity Limited will apply a new monthly Cost of Power Adjustment (COPA) starting this month, adding up to 1.5 cents per kWh on bills (no GST on the adjustment), with BEL required to submit monthly verified data to the PUC. Conservation/Blue Economy: Government signed an agreement to permanently protect about 17,000 acres at Turneffe Atoll, with $2.2m for a University of Belize marine research facility. Tourism & Air Access: WestJet expands winter Caribbean service with new nonstop flights to Belize City and Punta Cana from Winnipeg. Trade/Consumer Relief: Belize saw nearly 1,760 cross-border shoppers during the first GST-free back-to-school day, with another GST-free date set for Aug. 29. Crime & Courts: A former Treasury cashier pleaded guilty to stealing $5,000; separately, a Punta Gorda pastor was sentenced to 10 years for rape and sexual assault.

Telecom Governance Clash: Unions renewed calls for the immediate removal of BTL Chairman Mark Lizarraga and demanded changes to BTL oversight and the PUC, while Prime Minister John Briceño questioned what the chairman “did wrong” and said the government will “take a look” at the unions’ 90-day deadline. Electricity Costs: BEL says a new monthly Cost of Power Adjustment (COPA) starts this month, adding up to 1.5 cents per kWh on bills (separate from GST), with monthly reviews by the PUC. Conservation & Blue Economy: Government signed an agreement to permanently protect about 17,000 acres at Turneffe Atoll, keeping land under state ownership and funding a University of Belize marine research facility. Tourism & Air Access: WestJet announced new winter routes including nonstop service to Belize City, and BermudAir added five seasonal US connections to Philip Goldson International Airport. Disaster Readiness: Belize secured up to US$20m in parametric hurricane protection via the IDB and Swiss Re, plus a US$27.1m weather and early-warning project with CDB/Green Climate Fund support. Crime & Courts: A former Treasury cashier pleaded guilty to stealing $5,000 and was fined; a labourer was charged after $38,000 and a company truck went missing.

BTL–Smart/Speednet Fallout: Unions have called off a planned protest after Cabinet rejected BTL’s proposed $80M Speednet acquisition, but NTUCB says the fight isn’t over—demanding the immediate removal of BTL Chairman Markhelm Lizarraga and changes to the Public Utilities Commission to protect regulator independence, while also pushing for more transparency from the Prime Minister’s Office. Cross-Border Trade & Cost of Living: Belize recorded nearly 1,760 cross-border shoppers to Melchor de Mencos, Guatemala during the first 2026 GST-free back-to-school day (Aug. 15), with the next GST-free date set for Aug. 29. Disaster Readiness: Belize secured up to US$20M in parametric hurricane disaster protection via the IDB and Swiss Re, plus a US$27.1M CDB-backed weather and early-warning project to improve forecasting and public alerts. Tourism & Air Connectivity: BermudAir announced five new seasonal nonstop US routes to Belize, and WestJet expanded winter Caribbean service with new Belize City links from Canada. Public Safety & Crime: A 27-year-old butcher, Tyrel Robinson, was shot dead at Jun’s Meat Shop in Belize City; meanwhile a former Treasury cashier was fined $1,500 for stealing $5,000, and a man was charged after $38,000 cash and a company truck went missing in Orange Walk.

Telecom Tensions: The NTUCB has called off a planned protest over BTL’s proposed Speednet acquisition and instead launched fresh demands, including the immediate removal of BTL Chairman Mark Lizarraga and other board members, plus changes to the PUC to protect regulator independence from political influence. Governance & Transparency: Unions also want a formal accountability structure with the Prime Minister’s Office, with regular meetings and written updates on major public decisions. Tourism & Air Access: Belize is set to gain five new nonstop US routes via BermudAir’s winter schedule, adding Boston, Raleigh-Durham, Fort Lauderdale, Orlando-Sanford and St. Petersburg-Clearwater. Disaster Readiness: Belize secured US$20m in parametric hurricane disaster protection through the IDB and Swiss Re, and a US$27.1m CDB-backed weather and early-warning project is also moving ahead. Cross-Border Spending: On the first GST-free back-to-school day (Aug 15), nearly 1,760 shoppers crossed into Melchor de Mencos, with the next GST-free date on Aug 29. Public Health: MoHW renewed dengue prevention reminders for the rainy season, urging residents to eliminate mosquito breeding sites. Security & Crime: A butcher, Tyrel Robinson, was shot dead at Jun’s Meat Shop in Belize City, while a businessman, Alexander Underwood, was fined after pleading guilty to drug trafficking.

Telecom Policy Shock: Belize’s Cabinet has rejected BTL’s proposed $80m acquisition of Speednet/Smart, after public backlash and mounting pressure from unions and social partners. Union Update: The NTUCB has cancelled Tuesday’s BTL–Smart demonstration, replacing it with a press conference. Digital Registry Security: BCCAR says a cybersecurity breach in the Online Business Registry System exposed a vulnerability in passport-based registration for limited public accounts; it has disabled that method temporarily, capped downloads, and is continuing assessment. Environment & Food Safety: The Ministry of Sustainable Development held another update on the Belize River fish kill, while environmental groups point to drainage canals and runoff from sugar cane and rice areas as likely contributors. Public Health: MoHW is warning that rainy-season dengue risk rises with stagnant water and is urging households and businesses to remove mosquito breeding sites. Tourism & Business Travel: WestJet announced its biggest winter sun schedule yet, including Belize, as it expands Latin America and Caribbean capacity. Education: CXC launched the Caribbean Targeted Education Certificate (CTEC), reporting improved math and English A pass rates in 2025-26 results. Wildlife Safety: The Forest Department renewed calls for the public to stop feeding crocodiles after close encounters.

Telecom Shockwave: Belize’s Cabinet has formally withdrawn support for BTL’s proposed $80 million acquisition of Speednet/Smart, after public backlash and amid ongoing union and social-partner pressure—while unions say protests will still go ahead. Disaster Finance: The IDB has executed Belize’s first catastrophe swap, providing up to US$20m coverage (max US$10m per year) via parametric hurricane triggers for faster emergency liquidity. Environment Watch: The DOE says it still hasn’t found the exact cause of the Aug. 3 Belize River fish kill, with early indications pointing to heavy runoff after flooding, while oxygen depletion remains central. Cybersecurity: BCCAR reports a vulnerability in its passport-based OBRS registration process was exploited, but says it has patched controls, limited bulk activity, and restored the system Aug. 10. Public Health: The Ministry of Health urges dengue prevention during rainy season, focusing on removing standing water and protecting against mosquito bites. Business & Trade: Belize joined an IDB dialogue in Panama on connectivity and integration to improve roads, borders, customs and cargo movement. Tourism: Belize Tourism Board opens nominations for the 2026 National Tourism Awards (deadline Sept. 4). Safety Reminder: Forest Department warns the public to stop feeding or approaching crocodiles after close encounters.