Belize launches National Tourism Security Strategy 2025–2030

The Belize Tourism Board (BTB), in partnership with the Ministry of Tourism, Youth, Sports & Diaspora Relations, has unveiled the National Tourism Security Strategy 2025–2030, a landmark five-year plan aimed at safeguarding the country’s thriving tourism industry.

The strategy establishes a coordinated national framework to mitigate risks, protect Belize’s tourism product, and strengthen visitor confidence across both urban centers and remote destinations.

“This strategy reflects Belize’s commitment to delivering a safe, secure and world-class tourism experience,” said Anthony Mahler, Minister of Tourism, Youth, Sports & Diaspora Relations. “It brings together security forces, government agencies, industry stakeholders and our communities in one unified effort to protect what we have built and prepare for the future.”

Key objectives of the plan include:

• Expanding the Tourism Police Unit (TPU) by 60% over five years

• Formalizing a multi-agency Tourism Safety Forum for oversight and joint decision-making

• Deploying mobile enforcement teams in tourism corridors and high-risk zones

• Upgrading infrastructure with enhanced lighting, surveillance, and communications at key sites

• Mandating disaster and emergency contingency plans for all tourism operators

• Strengthening training and capacity-building across the tourism security ecosystem

“Our vision is clear,” said Evan Tillett, Director of Tourism. “Belize will provide a safe and secure visitor experience that fuels economic growth, protects our cultural and environmental assets, and builds international confidence in our destination.”