The Belize government says it remains “resolute” and that it will not nationalize the sugar industry, but will instead seek to get the stakeholders “on a collaborative path for the better interest of the industry”.
The government’s position follows discussions with representatives from the Belize Sugar Cane Farmers Association (BSCFA) and the Belize Sugar Industries/American Sugar Refinery/ (BSI/ASR), in which both parties made presentations to Cabinet.
“Cabinet is resolute that it will not nationalize the sugar industry and will instead try to get the parties on a collaborative path for the better interest of the industry. Having heard from both sides of the issue, the cane farmers and the millers, Cabinet has set up a ministerial sub-committee to meet with BSI and BSCFA to chart a way forward for both sides to resolve their differences,” the statement said.
It said the sub-committee will be chaired by Home Affairs and New Growth Industries Minister, Kareem Musa, “whose urgent remit” is to guide discussions between both parties so that an enduring commercial agreement can be concluded.
“Cabinet recognizes the role of sugar as the lifeblood of the northern economy, its proceeds as a critical source of foreign exchange, and, most importantly, the blood, sweat, and tears of the individual cane farmers, whose sacrifice and persistence must be justly rewarded.
“Furthermore, Cabinet appreciates the vital role of the miller and the marketer of Belize’s sugar, as well as the conditions necessary for strategic foreign direct investments to be fostered and to grow.
“Within the Constitution and the law, Cabinet will continue to engage with the parties, facilitating fair compromises and offering the government’s support by whatever means are available,” the statement added.
The statement comes amidst the ongoing dispute between the BSCFA and the ASR/BSI with cane farmers protesting the position by the ASR/BSI that it cannot afford to pay the BSCFA for sugar cane.
About 100 cane farmers Tuesday, bearing placards demanding higher payments, walked around the market square and in front of the National Assembly.
CMC/
