The High Court wrapped up a high-profile legal battle on Friday involving a major rift between ASR/BSI and the Belize Sugar Cane Farmers Association (BSCFA), centered on a factory blockade that occurred in December 2021. At the core of the case is a five-day protest during which cane farmers allegedly blocked deliveries to the factory, bringing operations at BSI and Belcogen to a standstill.
BSI contends that the blockade caused significant disruptions and financial losses. The company is now seeking millions of dollars in damages from the cane farmers’ association. Over three days of hearings, Justice Goonetileke listened to legal arguments presented by both parties, as well as submissions from representatives of the Government of Belize.
The outcome of this case could have major implications for Belize’s sugar industry and the long-standing relationship between cane farmers and the factory. The standoff has highlighted deep divisions within the sector and raised concerns about the sustainability of its current structure.
This morning, Minister of Agriculture Jose Mai weighed in on the broader impact of the conflict. “I think the industry needs energy, focus in the right direction,” he said. “So going to court, fighting over things that probably do not bring any positive change to the industry has to change. We cannot continue like that.”
Mai stressed the urgent need for unity and trust within the sector. “We cannot [continue] operating divided. We cannot continue operating when there is total, complete lack of confidence from both stakeholders, the farmers and the miller. I think some serious reflection needs to be done on how we can move the industry forward.”