Prime Minister John Briceño has hailed Santander for its continued investment in Belize, describing 2026 as a milestone year for both the company and the country’s sugar industry, Breaking Belize News reported.
Speaking at the launch of Santander’s 10th harvest season on Monday, Briceño said the occasion marked a turning point for the sector. He recalled a period when Belize was uncertain about whether to continue in sugar production, as several Caribbean nations had chosen to leave the industry.
The Prime Minister noted that decisive action taken in 2004 ensured Belize remained committed to sugar despite growing global competition and the loss of preferential access to European markets. He said Santander’s expansion and sustained investment demonstrate that the decision to stay in the industry was the correct one.
According to Briceño, the company, under its leadership team, has addressed many of the challenges facing the sector while showing confidence in Belize’s workforce and resources.
He also highlighted Santander’s US$20 million investment in the Caribbean Sugar Refinery, which is expected to begin operations by mid-2026. The refinery is projected to meet up to 75 percent of refined sugar demand within CARICOM, reducing the region’s dependence on imports from outside the bloc and supporting greater value-added production.
Describing the year ahead as transformative, the Prime Minister said the developments signal strong confidence in Belize’s future and represent a significant step forward for the national sugar industry.
