PM Briceño Explains Reason Behind Zero GST Weekends

Today, Prime Minister John Briceño explained the reasons why the government sought to implement a series of holiday relief measures. He said that the zero GST weekends are aimed at easing the financial strain on Belizean families during the Christmas season. Speaking in the House of Representatives, PM Briceño explained that the initiative was driven by the need to provide support at a time when many families face increased expenses.

According to the Prime Minister, the idea emerged from a broader effort to help Belizeans during a period that should be marked by joy and celebration. “Christmas is a time when families want to provide for their children—a little Christmas cheer, an apple, or a simple treat,” he noted. “Children don’t understand whether you have money or not; they just know what Christmas should feel like.”

To address this, the government introduced a temporary GST holiday. Over two weekends—Saturday and Sunday of this week, as well as Saturday and Sunday of the following week—consumers will benefit from zero in general sales tax on their purchases.

Briceño said that while the government would lose revenue in the short term, the broader goal is to encourage spending within Belize. “People can save at least 1.5 percent on their purchases. And once we lose on the revenues, to us it’s not only about the money; it’s important. We need the money; as a government, we need the money. But we make people happy, and we make people spend their money here. And when they spend money here, they spend it in Belizean-owned businesses. And they hire people, and then eventually we’ll be able to collect the taxes back.

Briceño was clear that this approach aims to keep Belizeans shopping at home rather than travelling to places like Chetumal, where prices may not necessarily be cheaper.

In addition to the GST holiday, the government has introduced a month-long waiver on GST for hams and turkeys—two key staples of the Belizean Christmas menu. This measure is intended to make these holiday essentials more affordable for families.