Leader of Opposition says “Belizean families cannot afford more increases”

By Zoila Palma:  Leader of the Opposition Tracy Panton says that data from the Statistical Institute of Belize shows how Belize’s economy grew by just 1.4% in the second quarter of 2026 while the primary sector contracted by 6.1%, the secondary sector by 6.4%, and manufacturing by 9.9%.

“These figures expose the failure to strengthen the productive base that sustains livelihoods and generates export earnings.

Meanwhile, consumer prices rose 4.4% in August. Transport costs jumped 11.7%, food and non-alcoholic beverages increased 2.5%, and housing, water, electricity, gas and other fuels rose 4.4%. Belizean families are paying more for groceries, transportation and basic utilities.  Belizean families cannot afford more increases, more uncertainty and more excuses,” Panton expressed.

Panton says that Belize’s trade figures are “alarming.”

“Tourism stakeholders have reported declines of as much as 30–40%. The Government must investigate these reports and engage the sector immediately. Tropic Air’s decision to close its Punta Gorda station effective November 1, 2026, citing sustained losses and uncertainty surrounding domestic aviation, is another serious warning that has caused much concern for workers, businesses, tourism partners and Toledo’s connectivity,” she added.

The Leader of the Opposition further called on the Government to answer for the widening gap between its promises of prosperity, “todos ganamos” and the reality facing Belizean families who are being forced to make impossible decisions every day.

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