Unresolved Dispute: The Ongoing Controversy of Cruise Ports in Belize

by | Jun 24, 2023

The development of Belize’s cruise tourism industry has been a source of controversy that has embroiled the country in recent times. The Briceño administration has faced intense criticism for its handling of the ‘cruise port wars’ in the Belize District. At present, the government is attempting to negotiate its way out of a Definitive Agreement with Portico Enterprises for the Port of Magical Belize while trying to keep Stake Bank Enterprises Limited satisfied and fend off the many challenges of Waterloo Investment Holdings.

The controversy surrounding the development of the cruise tourism industry has not gone unnoticed, and numerous requests for information from the Government of Belize regarding the Portico Definitive Agreement have gone unanswered. Waterloo has made several requests through the Freedom of Information Act to obtain information from the government, but to no avail.

Currently, one cruise port is under construction, and developers for two additional ports are seeking approval. These development projects are reportedly worth hundreds of millions and highlight the unique demand for the Belizean product in cruise tourism. As a result, it is crucial to safeguard the country’s natural beauty for both current and future generations.

The Briceño administration has assured the Belizean people that they will do what is in the best interest of the nation. The Prime Minister has warned Waterloo Investment Holdings that the government “will not be distracted, we will not be intimidated, and we will not be bullied.” The Prime Minister has also warned of further legal action, including pursuing a writ of mandamus at the High Court.

Senior Counsel Godfrey Smith’s letter highlights the unfair treatment of Waterloo, and it will be relied upon as a ground in support of Waterloo’s subsidiary company’s claim under the UK Bilateral Investment Treaty of 1982. Despite the challenges faced by Waterloo, the company remains determined to protect its interests.

As the controversy surrounding the development of the cruise tourism industry in Belize continues, BreakingBelizeNews.com has been closely following the situation. BreakingBelizeNews.com is the most visited news site in Belize and offers fully customizable and flexible digital marketing packages. However, please note that content from BreakingBelizeNews.com is copyrighted and requires written permission for reprinting in online or print media. For inquiries, BreakingBelizeNews.com can be contacted at [email protected] or by calling 501-601-0315.

In conclusion, the controversy surrounding the development of the cruise tourism industry in Belize has been ongoing. The Briceño administration is currently negotiating its way out of a Definitive Agreement with Portico Enterprises for the Port of Magical Belize, trying to placate Stake Bank Enterprises Limited, and fending off the many challenges of Waterloo Investment Holdings. While the controversy highlights the unique demand for the Belizean product in cruise tourism, it is crucial to safeguard the country’s natural beauty. BreakingBelizeNews.com continues to closely follow the situation and offers fully customizable and flexible digital marketing packages. If you’re interested in learning more about this development, be sure to contact BreakingBelizeNews.com.