WREN led the development of a comprehensive National Maritime Transport Policy for Belize, supported by Cefas and funded through the UK Government’s Ocean Country Partnership Programme. The policy acknowledges the significant contributions of maritime sectors to Belize’s economy and development, including tourism, passenger transport, shipping, and emerging industries. With a large EEZ (61% as a percentage of land area), rising population, increased economic activities, and evolving market opportunities it has become evident that there is significant potential for growth in the maritime transport sector. Effective management and coordination of the maritime sector is extremely important considering its interrelations with the movement of goods, passengers, infrastructure and natural resources. With the adoption of a National Maritime Transport Policy the nation has a golden opportunity to effectively oversee and transition its domestic and international maritime transport sector toward sustainability and decarbonization. With the Maritime Technical Committee leading coordinated maritime affairs policy and management, the National Maritime Transport Policy is poised to play a significant role in guiding the committee in guiding decisions to ensure that the maritime sector operates efficiently, sustainably, safely, and in an environmentally sound manner. Additionally, the policy will support Belize’s domestic focus on the development of the blue economy and ensuring the compliance of international maritime related conventions by Belize.
WREN produced a policy framework that provides strategic direction across tourism, fisheries, and maritime trade, with a focus on sustainability, connectivity, and resilience. The work was complemented by an action plan for securing future funding and a Monitoring and Evaluation Plan to track progress over time. The policy and an accompanying cabinet paper has been prepared and awaiting adoption by the National Cabinet.
