United Kingdom maintains zero tariff rate for cane sugar quota from Belize, ACP states

Published by BBNTEAM at November 5, 2024

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Posted: Tuesday, November 5, 2024. 9:48 pm CST.

By Aaron Humes: A significant development for Belize’s sugar industry has emerged following the United Kingdom’s decision to maintain its Autonomous Tariff Quota (ATQ) for raw cane sugar, a move that promises substantial benefits for local cane farmers and the national economy, according to a press statement from the Government of Belize.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade announced that the UK will continue to allow 260,000 tonnes of raw cane sugar to enter its market at a zero percent tariff rate in 2025, preserving vital market access for Belize. This announcement comes as part of the ongoing CARIFORUM-UK Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA), which ensures Belizean sugar exports will remain duty-free and quota-free.

Minister of State for Foreign Trade, Dr. Osmond Martinez, expressed gratitude for the UK’s commitment: “The UK’s decision to maintain this vital access reaffirms the importance of Belize’s cane farmers, whose contributions support not only the economy but the livelihoods of thousands of Belizean families. This ensures that Belize remains competitive in one of its primary export markets, offering stability to rural communities.”

Belize’s sugar industry is crucial, accounting for approximately 41 percent of the nation’s foreign exchange earnings and sustaining around 12,000 direct jobs. The decision to uphold the current ATQ level is a valuable lifeline for the industry, particularly amidst global market shifts and heightened competition.

This achievement is credited to the proactive engagement of Belize in the UK’s public consultations on sugar tariffs, where the country highlighted the socio-economic significance of its sugar industry. The Ministry acknowledged the collaborative efforts of all stakeholders, including local farmers and trade partners, in advocating for Belize’s interests during these discussions.

Looking ahead, the UK government has pledged to continue consultations with CARIFORUM countries to review policies for 2026 and beyond. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is committed to engaging in these discussions to ensure the longevity and stability of Belize’s sugar exports.

The industry, while continuing to face challenges, has had its most successful season to date in terms of prices earned for cane sugar from its main export partners – the UK, United States, and CARICOM, in that order.

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