Belize Farmers Get U.S. $4.5M Lifeline

Belize has signed a US $4.15 million agreement with Taiwan to help farmers turn fresh produce into processed goods that last longer and sell for higher prices.

On February 9, 2026, Agriculture Minister Rodwell Ferguson and Taiwan’s Ambassador Lily Li‑Wen Hsu signed the agreement for the “Belize Agricultural Product Processing Innovation and Incubation Project”. The programme will run for four and a half years and establish an Agro‑Processing Incubation Centre at Central Farm in Cayo. The centre will introduce new technologies, train entrepreneurs, and connect farmers to markets.

Agriculture already makes up nearly 40% of Belize’s exports and has grown 17% in value over the past four years, according to the Ministry of Agriculture. However, without proper processing facilities, much of that produce spoils before it can be sold.

The new project will use Taiwan’s advanced technology and expertise to help about 200 farmers start their own small agro-processing businesses, turning fresh produce into products with a longer shelf life that can sell at higher market prices.

Taiwan has long been a development partner for Belize, supporting agriculture and other sectors.