Belize Sugar Industry Faces Potential Struggle Amid Poor Harvest and Disease Outbreak

The sugar industry may experience one of its toughest years in recent memory, according to Minister of Agriculture, Jose Mai. Last week, the Belize Sugar Industry (BSI) halted operations at the sugar mill due to poor field conditions and the low quality of the cane being harvested. The situation, compounded by the spread of fusarium fungus, has already led to a 30 percent decrease in production. According to Minister Mai, these factors could lead to this season’s yield being significantly lower than expected. 

On February 19, Belize Sugar Industries (BSI) announced that it was halting sugar production at the mill. This decision was made in response to the challenges faced by farmers and producers due to the muddy conditions caused by heavy rains. With the weather situation now improving, Minister Mai has indicated that operations are expected to resume soon.

The country’s sugar crop season started on December 28.