Bus Operators Say System Under Strain Amid Rising Fuel Costs

Belize’s bus operators say surging fuel prices and rising operational expenses are pushing the industry to a breaking point.

The Belize Bus Association (BBA) wrote to Transport Minister Louis Zabaneh outlining what they describe as an increasingly unsustainable situation. Operators warn that without intervention, the public transportation system relied upon daily by thousands of Belizeans could begin to falter.

In their letter, the association proposed three options to help keep the industry afloat: removal of GST on fuel for bus operators, elimination of taxes on essential parts and batteries, reinstatement of the government subsidy introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic, or an approved adjustment in bus fares.

“The fuel prices are a serious concern for all the operators at this time,” said Philip Jones, President of the Belize Bus Association. “We have written to the Department of Transport and the minister asking for assistance.”

Jones said the letter was sent to the minister this week and that the association will await a response before determining its next steps.