By Zoila Palma: Prime Minister John Briceño lauded Santander for its bold investments and unwavering confidence in Belize as the company launched its 10th harvest season on March 2, 2026.
He described 2026 as a turning point not only for the company but for the country’s entire sugar industry.
Reflecting on past uncertainty within the sector, the Prime Minister recalled, “It was not so long ago that Belize was contemplating whether to remain in sugar or exit the industry as many of our sister Caribbean nations did.”
He noted that decisive leadership in 2004 ensured Belize remained committed to sugar production despite global competition and the loss of preferential European markets.
Santander stands as proof that the decision to remain in sugar was the right one.
“Santander, under the able leadership of Jose, David and their committed team, made a decision to invest in Belize and the company is addressing much of the challenges identified above, and in so doing Santander is proving that we made the correct decision in 2004 to remain in the sugar business,” he stated.
The Prime Minister also highlighted the company’s US$20 million investment in the Caribbean Sugar Refinery, which is expected to be operational by mid-2026 and target 75 percent of CARICOM’s refined sugar demand.
He said the refinery would reduce the region’s dependence on extra-regional imports and usher in a new era of value-added production.
“For those of us in Government, today represents a company displaying great confidence in Belize — in our land, in our people and in our collective ability to embrace and use modern technology,” Briceño said.
Declaring the year ahead a milestone moment, he concluded, “2026 is a game changer for Santander and Belize.”
The post PM commends Santander Sugar Group’s confidence and investment in Belize’s Sugar Industry appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
By Zoila Palma: Prime Minister John Briceño lauded Santander for its bold investments and unwavering confidence in Belize as the company launched its 10th harvest season on March 2, 2026. He described 2026 as a turning point not only for the company but for the country’s entire sugar industry. Reflecting on past uncertainty within the
The post PM commends Santander Sugar Group’s confidence and investment in Belize’s Sugar Industry appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
