The Reporter

The United States has formally notified the World Trade Organization (WTO) of a new 10 percent import surcharge on goods from nearly all trading partners, marking a notable shift after months of unilateral tariff actions that drew legal and international scrutiny. At a May 5 meeting of the WTO Committee on Balance-of-Payments Restrictions, the United States said the surcharge was necessary to address “fundamental international payment problems” and balance-of-payments deficits. The measure...

A local economist is warning that the United States’ proposed import surcharge at the World Trade Organization (WTO) could deepen trade disruptions for smaller economies like Belize, while underscoring the need for CARICOM countries to respond with a unified voice. Dr. Phillip Castillo said he sees little logic in the US claim that the surcharge is necessary because of balance-of-payments difficulties, particularly given the dominant global role of the US dollar. In comments to The Reporter,...

Church leaders and some residents are calling for the removal of a billboard at a prominent location in Belmopan, with critics arguing that the alcohol advertisement sexualizes women and promotes harmful social behavior in a city—and country—already grappling with substance abuse and violence. The controversy centers on a billboard featuring Trinidadian artist Nailah Blackman holding an alcoholic beverage. The advertisement, positioned near Belmopan’s main traffic light, has sparked debate...