By Zoila Palma: Belize’s economy grew by 5.1 percent during the first three months of 2026, according to preliminary Gross Domestic Product (GDP) estimates released by the Statistical Institute of Belize (SIB).
The value of goods and services produced between January and March totaled $1.454 billion, an increase of $70.8 million compared to the $1.383 billion recorded during the same period in 2025.
The SIB reported that growth was driven by expansion across all three sectors of the economy, with agriculture, manufacturing, construction, and service industries contributing to the increase.
The primary sector grew by 5 percent, with stronger production of bananas, sugarcane, citrus, marine products, and cattle.
Banana production increased by 5.5 percent to 22.8 thousand metric tons, while sugarcane output rose by 7.4 percent and citrus production by 2.4 percent. The fishing industry recorded one of the strongest performances, expanding by 32.2 percent due to higher exports of shrimp, lobster products, and whole fish.
Cattle production also rose by 13.5 percent during the quarter.
The services sector remained the largest contributor to economic activity, accounting for almost two-thirds of the economy.
Output within the tertiary sector increased by 3.1 percent to $918.2 million, led by a 9.7 percent expansion in wholesale and retail trade and a 14.8 percent increase in financial and insurance activities.
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By Zoila Palma: Belize’s economy grew by 5.1 percent during the first three months of 2026, according to preliminary Gross Domestic Product (GDP) estimates released by the Statistical Institute of Belize (SIB). The value of goods and services produced between January and March totaled $1.454 billion, an increase of $70.8 million compared to the $1.383
The post Belize Economy expands 5.1% in first quarter of 2026 appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
