PM Briceño Calls for Fairer Contributions from Tourism Sector

In late 2024, reports emerged that the government was considering raising the hotel tax from 9% to 12.5%. Although the Ministry of Tourism has not made a final decision, the proposed increase is part of a broader plan to reform tourism taxes.

On Wednesday, Prime Minister John Briceño told reporters, “We have invested tens of millions of dollars in the tourist industry, and taxpayers have paid for it.” He added that Belize has made significant public investments to support the industry in infrastructure development and marketing, which has led to Belize having “the fastest growing tourism in the region.”

“So now that we have done all that. I think it is only fair to get back some of that money and give the relief to people who need it most,” Briceño said.

On a single day in March 2024, Belize welcomed the highest number of visitors ever recorded, with 16,000 passengers arriving on its shores. The Belize Tourism Board (BTB) had projected that 2024 will not only meet but surpass pre-pandemic levels, making it a historic year for the industry.

“I do believe the tourism industry needs to pay their fair share,” Briceño added.