GOB to Issue Updated National Ports Policy

Cabinet today issued a three page statement on the cruise sector and port developments. The statement speaks to the Port of Magical Belize project, and the Port of Belize’s proposed cruise terminal. As it relates to Port of Magical Belize, the release says the project has received environmental approval, subject to a strict and detailed environmental compliance plan. The release goes on to say that a final determination is pending from NEAC for the Port of Belize’s proposed cruise terminal. Cabinet reaffirmed its commitment to foster the development of modern, efficient and cost-effective cargo and bulk shipping port operations, as a part of an imminent National Ports Policy. Cabinet says it will also publish an updated National Cruise Tourism Policy and the National Ports Policy in the coming months. In its final point, Cabinet emphasized the importance of adherence to Belize’s ecological conservation and sustainability. The release says, sustainable development, including cruise tourism expansion, must not contemplate only this decade’s gains. GOB also notes that the Blue Bonds for Conservation will generate one hundred and seventy million dollars for marine investments and management over the next twenty years, and thereafter yield a Marine Conservation Endowment approximating two hundred million dollars Belize.