UK’s Sugar Tariff Quota Decision to Benefit Belize

Fonseca was thrilled about the great news for Belize’s sugar industry following the UK’s decision to keep its current Autonomous Tariff Quota for raw cane sugar. This means Belize’s raw cane sugar can still enter the UK market with zero tariffs, and our sugar exports will continue to enjoy duty-free, quota-free access. This steady access is crucial for Belize, especially since there won’t be any increased competition from suppliers outside the Organization of African, Caribbean, and Pacific States. Fonseca explained how this decision will benefit Belize.

 

Francis Fonseca, Minister of Foreign Trade

“It means that, you know, the status quo remains. That Belize will continue to be able to, um, export its sugar on the same existing terms and conditions. At least for another few years. Um, I think it’s four years or so. Um, so, that was something we were concerned about. Because there were moves, you know, in some partners to try to, to, to really remove that, that favorable status. Um, and extend it to other countries. Um, and so, it’s very important. We did a lot of work in that regard. Um, you know, my predecessor, Minister Courtney, did a lot of important work. Advancing that issue on and we have done so over the last year. Um, so we’re very happy that the U. K. Government, um, And parliament has approved that process to continue.”