Belize and Mexico Deepen Trade Talks at Corozal Free Zone

It was a high-level huddle with big ambitions this week inside the Corozal Free Zone, as Prime Minister John Briceño sat down with officials from Quintana Roo, Mexico. The aim was simple, to strengthen ties and creäte fresh business opportunities between Belize and its northern neighbor, Mexico. According to the Prime Minister, the talks zeroed in on boosting investment and expanding trade, not just between Belize and Mexico, but across the wider CARICOM region. It’s a promising step forward for regional collaboration. But while the meeting was hailed as a success, PM Briceño didn’t shy away from addressing lingering concerns, particularly when it comes to security in the Free Zone. He says it’s an issue that still needs attention. We spoke with the Prime Minister today to get his take on the discussions and the challenges ahead.

 

Prime Minister John Briceño

“What she is trying to do is to have a closer working relationship with the government of Quintana Roo. The Governor of Quintana Roo has sent signals that she wants us to find how we can work better together. My CEO Nardia Garcia was there for investment. They met with officials, from her ministry, Thea Garcia and investments. And we are looking at how we can  have more synergy with businesses from Quintana Roo and Belize and to be able to work together to produce products we can sell in the CARICOM market. I think it was a very successful meeting.”

 

Paul Lopez

“What is your thoughts on the volatility of doing business in the freezone at this time?”

 

Prime Minister John Briceño

“Well of course it is of serious concern. That is why we felt it is best to put Enterprise with the Ministry of Home Affairs, cause then the police could have a more active hand in ensuring that they can give a sense of security in the northern freezone.”