Belize River Fish Kill: The Department of the Environment says it’s sending samples abroad because Belize lacks specialized testing equipment, while it continues investigating a mass death along a 17.5-mile stretch; NGOs are pushing for a fully transparent, independently verified probe, and Santander Sugar Group insists its factory uses a closed-loop system with no routine discharge into the river and that its canals aren’t connected to Labouring Creek. Telecom & Competition: Social partners, including the Belize Chamber of Commerce, are calling for an immediate halt to BTL’s proposed acquisition of Speednet/SMART, demanding more disclosure on legality, valuation, governance, conflicts of interest, and consumer impact, while the BCWU says 84% of members no longer support the deal. Digital Banking: Belize Bank has signed a six-year partnership with Backbase to roll out an AI-native digital banking operating system for both retail and business customers. Sugar Sector: Prime Minister Briceño met sugar stakeholders on the mealybug infestation and updates on CRESAP and the BAC-SuF project. Agriculture on the Ground: The Agriculture Minister visited farms in the Belize District, including hydroponics and cattle operations, to hear challenges from climate change and rain-fed farming realities. Trade Promotion: Belize’s MOEA promoted food products from Paraguay, Guatemala, and Belize in Taiwan to expand market presence. Policy & Health: Belize’s Tobacco Control Bill advanced with broad House support, including bans on smoking in public places and vaping product restrictions. Local Business & Ports: Chetumal businesses explored investment tied to Belize port expansion, with construction expected to start in early 2027.