Belize’s sugar industry has secured a significant victory with the recent confirmation by the UK government to maintain its current Autonomous Tariff Quota (ATQ) for raw cane sugar. The UK will not be increasing market access for non-OACPS (Organization of African, Caribbean and Pacific States) suppliers, ensuring that Belize's sugar exports will continue to enjoy favorable conditions in the UK market throughout 2025.
Under the confirmed 2025 ATQ policy, Belize will retain duty-free, quota-free access for 260,000 tonnes of raw cane sugar to the UK market, with a 0% tariff rate. This arrangement is a major boon for Belize’s sugar sector, which remains a cornerstone of the national economy, supporting approximately 12,000 direct jobs and benefiting nearly 50,000 people in the northern districts of the country.
Minister of State for Foreign Trade, Dr. the Hon. Osmond Martinez, emphasized the importance of this decision: “The UK’s commitment to preserving this vital access reaffirms the significance of Belize’s cane farmers, whose work not only supports the economy but also sustains the livelihoods of thousands of Belizean families. This ensures that Belize remains competitive in one of its primary export markets, contributing to the stability of rural communities and the country’s foreign exchange earnings.”
Despite global market challenges and increasing competition, the UK’s decision to maintain the current ATQ policy provides Belize’s cane farmers with a valuable opportunity to continue exporting raw cane sugar without facing new tariff barriers. The sugar industry accounts for approximately 41% of Belize’s foreign exchange earnings and remains a vital economic pillar for the nation.
This positive outcome is due to Belize’s proactive participation in the UK’s public consultations on sugar tariffs. During these consultations, Belize highlighted the social and economic importance of the sugar industry and the potential consequences of changes to market access. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade acknowledges the contributions of local farmers, industry representatives, and trade partners in supporting Belize’s case during this process.
Looking ahead, the UK government has committed to holding further consultations with CARIFORUM countries to review policies for 2026 and beyond. Belize will continue to engage in these discussions to ensure long-term stability and continued market access for its sugar exports.
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