Caribbean Tourism in Focus: Caribbean Week in New York 2026 kicked off June 1 with a record turnout of tourism ministers and commissioners, including expected Belize participation, as leaders push for stronger connectivity and a unified regional push to protect market share. Sargassum-to-Textiles Push: Belize City is seeing a new sustainability model as Black in Marine Science and the Black Fiber & Textile Network partner to turn harmful sargassum into sustainable fiber, with local residents trained through the Bloom to Business initiative. Labour Crunch Hits Growth: Immigration and Labour officials say Belize is facing a growing shortage of manual workers and some skilled roles, with employers increasingly relying on imported labour—especially affecting construction, agriculture, and tourism. Minimum Wage Debate: A commentary warns that raising Belize’s minimum wage from $5 to $6 could backfire for small businesses already squeezed by fuel, electricity, and inflation. Inflation Watch: SIB reports April inflation rose 2.9% year-on-year, driven by higher transport, food, and electricity costs. Energy & Transport Moves: UNDP’s e-mobility conference in Belmopan highlighted Belize’s electric bus pilot results, while Cabinet approved measures tied to hurricane readiness and public transport modernization. Construction & Planning Pressure: San Pedro is moving toward an urban planning committee as authorities respond to rapid expansion and development concerns. Agriculture Revival Efforts: The Agriculture Ministry is working to revive citrus and is distributing supplies to southern farmers to boost food production and reduce input costs.