Belize's Economy: A Focus On Service And Its Impact On Job Creation

Belize has a population of around 330,000 people, and 90% of businesses are small or micro-businesses. The services sector contributes to around 60% of Belize's Gross Domestic Product (GDP). The Belizean economy is growing slowly but steadily, with an unemployment rate of 11% and a low minimum wage of $3.30/hour.

The Belize Public Service offers jobs in fields such as medical, administrative, and environmental roles. However, due to the high unemployment rate, many jobs are reserved for Belizeans. Non-residents must possess a special skill set and network effectively to find work. Self-employment is an option for expats, as they are viewed as job creators.

Tourism-related businesses

Tourism is a vital industry for Belize, contributing approximately 38.1% ($244.85 million) of its GDP and is the country's top foreign exchange earner. Belize's tourism industry has experienced steady growth, with strong demand from American tourists and retirees, who make up an estimated 70% of all tourists.

Belize's tourism sector offers a "boutique-style" experience, focusing on adventure, recreational, and ecotourism activities. The country boasts numerous archaeological and cultural sites, including some of the largest Mayan cities and temples in Central America, as well as an expansive limestone cave system.

There are several tourism-related business opportunities in Belize, including:

Eco- and Agri-Tourism

Belize's natural and cultural attractions provide opportunities for eco- and agri-tourism businesses. Visitors are drawn to the country's diverse ecosystems, including its beaches, rainforests, and ancient Mayan sites.

Adventure and Recreational Activities

The demand for adventure and recreational activities is high among tourists. This includes wildlife viewing, caving expeditions, hiking, zip-lining, diving, canoeing, and horseback riding.

Accommodations and Lodging

With the increase in tourism, there is a growing demand for accommodations. International hotel chains such as Hilton, Wyndham, Marriott, and Four Seasons have announced expansion projects in Belize.

Food and Beverage

Belize's diverse culinary scene is a significant draw for tourists. Restaurants, cafes, and bars that showcase the country's unique cuisine and cultural diversity can be lucrative businesses.

Transportation and Tour Operators

Transportation services, such as auto and boat rentals, as well as tour operators, are in high demand to facilitate tourist movements within the country.

Marketing and Promotional Materials

The need for marketing and promotional materials is essential to attract tourists and promote Belize as a destination. This includes printing, marketing collateral, and digital marketing strategies.

Overall, Belize's tourism-related businesses have strong potential for growth and success, contributing significantly to the country's economy and providing a range of opportunities for investors and entrepreneurs.

Medical jobs

Belize's economy is growing slowly but steadily, with the services sector contributing to around 60% of the country's Gross Domestic Product (GDP). However, the country faces challenges such as high unemployment, currently at 11%, and a low minimum wage of $3.30 per hour.

For those seeking medical jobs in Belize, there are a few important considerations. Firstly, due to the high unemployment rate, many jobs are reserved for Belizeans. Employers must prove that there are no qualified Belizean candidates before hiring non-residents. This means that finding medical jobs as a non-resident can be challenging and may require a significant pay cut.

To work legally in Belize, non-residents need a work permit. This can be obtained after living in the country for at least six months as a visitor, but the process can be lengthy and costly. It is recommended to apply through the local Labour Department, and hiring an expeditor may speed up the process. Work permits are valid for six or twelve months and typically require supporting documentation such as a passport and proof of finances.

For medical professionals, additional steps are required. Doctors and nurses need to register with the Belizean Medical Council and obtain a Temporary Work Permit. This process includes providing a medical license and qualifications to the local team, who will arrange the permit for a small fee.

Volunteering opportunities in the medical field are also available in Belize. These positions offer a chance to gain experience and support local medical teams, but they still require a Temporary Work Permit for qualified practitioners.

Overall, finding medical jobs in Belize as a non-resident can be challenging due to the preference for hiring Belizeans and the lengthy work permit process. However, with persistence and the right connections, it is possible to navigate these hurdles and find employment in the country's medical sector.

Conservation

Belize has a population of around 330,000 people, and the economy is growing slowly but steadily, with a growth rate of 2-3% in recent years. The services sector contributes to approximately 60% of Belize's Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

The country has a high unemployment rate of 11% and a low minimum wage of $3.30 per hour. As a result, many jobs are reserved for Belizeans, and employers must prove that no qualified Belizean citizens are available before hiring non-residents. This makes it challenging for non-residents to find work in Belize, and many jobs are only accessible with the appropriate connections and a special skill set.

However, there are some ways to work and conserve income while living in Belize. Here are some tips for conservation in this area:

• Work Remotely: One option is to work remotely for a company based in another country, particularly your home country. This way, you can earn a higher income than local jobs offer and avoid the difficulties of obtaining a work permit in Belize. It is essential to set up a remote job before relocating to Belize, as finding remote work after the move can be challenging. Additionally, ensure that you have a reliable internet connection, as internet quality in Belize can be a challenge.
• Start a Business: Belize is a favourable place for overseas business ventures, with 90% of businesses being small or micro-businesses. The country offers incentives for entrepreneurs, such as exemptions from import and export duties and various taxes. To qualify, you must demonstrate how your business will benefit Belize economically. Tourism-related businesses, such as restaurants, bars, and B&Bs, are popular among expats. However, the tourist season is typically from December to April, so savvy business owners usually open their businesses before the high season. Additionally, the Belizean government offers incentives for businesses in other sectors, such as light manufacturing and specialty agriculture.
• Freelancing: Freelancers in Belize are not required to have a work permit, providing another option for non-residents to work without the permit challenge.
• Obtain Permanent Residency: Once you have permanent residency in Belize, you can be employed just like any natural-born Belizean, which eliminates the work permit hurdle.
• Networking: The country operates primarily through word of mouth, so getting out, meeting people, and sharing your skillset is essential. Connect with other expats and any Belizean friends or communities with Facebook groups and classified sections.
• CV Preparation: Ensure your CV is up-to-date and follows local standards. Consider getting a free CV review from services like TopCV.
• Specialised Skills: Focus on jobs that require technical skills in medicine, mechanics, engineering, or education. While these positions may still come with a pay cut, they are more accessible to non-residents.

In conclusion, while Belize faces challenges with high unemployment and a low minimum wage, there are ways to work and conserve income while living in the country. By working remotely, starting a business, freelancing, or obtaining permanent residency, you can overcome the hurdles of the local job market. Additionally, networking, CV preparation, and specialising in certain skill sets can improve your chances of finding employment in Belize.

Education

The Catholic Church, in agreement with the government, operates most of Belize's premier public schools under a Church-State partnership that dates back to the country's history as a British colony. In recent years, the state has assumed a more central role in education, especially at the secondary and tertiary levels, with the government conceiving of education as a tool in the peaceful struggle for independence. However, this expansion outstripped the state's resources, leading to a heavy reliance on external aid, primarily from the US.

Belizean students move through "forms", from first form in primary school to sixth form (junior college), though some schools follow US and Caribbean Community practices, using the grade system of grades 1-12. Secondary education is competitive, requiring students to pass a comprehensive exam. Charges for books and fees are often unaffordable for many Belizean families.

In 2014, more than 90,000 students were enrolled in Belize's schools and colleges at all levels, including almost 4,000 in preschools, 63,000 in primary schools, and more than 15,000 in high schools. Close to 6,000 students were in post-secondary studies.

Corporal punishment was prohibited in the 2010 Education Act, and recent amendments to the 2017 Education Act aim to ensure that 100% of teachers are professionally trained as a requirement to obtain a teaching license. Despite these efforts, the Belize Ministry of Education has struggled to keep children in school or improve the country's educational standards.

Belize also has community colleges and junior colleges, which are usually higher-level institutions attached to existing secondary schools. They offer associate or two-year college degrees.

Until the 1990s, Belize did not have a true four-year university system, but in 2000, provisions were made for the development of the University of Belize, which combines several existing educational facilities. The University of Belize offers tuition to Belizean citizens and permanent residents for $675 per semester (plus fees). Other universities in Belize include Galen University, an accredited institution that offers serious competition to the University of Belize, and St. John's College, which will become Belize's first-ever Jesuit university in 2024, offering bachelor's degree programs.

Belizean students often seek higher education abroad, particularly in the US, due to the geographic proximity, high-quality education system, and availability of scholarships and financial aid.

Agriculture

Sugarcane is a key crop, cultivated in the northern districts of Orange Walk and Corozal, with some production also taking place in the West at Santander Sugar Group. Sugar is one of the country's largest agricultural products by revenue, along with bananas and shellfish. Belize exports its sugar to the EU, CARICOM, and the US, with the UK being its main export partner.

Citrus fruits, particularly oranges and grapefruits, are the second-largest agricultural industry in Belize. Cultivation is concentrated in the southern districts of Stann Creek and Toledo, with some expansion in the western district of Cayo. The industry has faced challenges due to citrus greening and the greasy spot rind blotch (GSRB) disease, which have impacted production.

Banana cultivation is also important, taking place primarily in the southern districts of Stann Creek and Toledo. However, banana production has faced setbacks due to drought, flooding, and competition from larger exporters under the Economic Partnership Agreement with the European Union.

Other agricultural products in Belize include corn, rice, beans, and sorghum, which are mainly consumed domestically. Coconut, cacao, and coffee are produced in small quantities for the local market and the tourism industry.

Belize's agricultural sector faces challenges such as a lack of modern irrigation systems and equipment, as well as disease and natural disaster concerns. However, there are opportunities for investment and modernization, particularly in agricultural machinery, sustainable technology, and improved disease and pest management.

Frequently asked questions