By Belize Live News Staff: The Belize government is considering raising the hotel tax from 9% to 12.5% as part of a broader plan to reform tourism taxes. Prime Minister John Briceño explained the move on Wednesday, citing the public investments made in tourism infrastructure and marketing, which have positioned Belize as “the fastest-growing tourism destination in the region.”
“We have invested tens of millions of dollars in the tourist industry, and taxpayers have paid for it,” Briceño said. “Now it’s only fair to get back some of that money and provide relief to those who need it most.”
This proposal follows a record-breaking year for Belize tourism. In March 2024, the country welcomed 16,000 visitors in a single day, the highest ever recorded. The Belize Tourism Board projects that 2024 will surpass pre-pandemic visitor levels, marking a historic achievement for the industry.
The proposed tax increase has sparked discussion among stakeholders, with some expressing concerns over potential impacts on the sector’s competitiveness. However, the government maintains that the tourism industry should contribute its fair share to national development.
While the decision is not yet final, the debate underscores the challenges of balancing fiscal priorities with maintaining Belize’s appeal as a top travel destination.
