Belizeans Losing Faith in Economy, Says SIB Report

Belize’s Consumer Confidence Index (CCI) declined marginally in May 2025, according to the Statistical Institute of Belize. SIB reported that it fell by 0.5 percentage points from 47.7 in April to 47.5. The dip marks a continuation of the gradual downward trend in consumer sentiment observed since the start of the year.

The decline was driven by weakening perceptions of both current economic conditions and future expectations. The ‘Present’ component dropped by 4.0 percent to 44.1, while the ‘Expectations’ component fell by 5.6 per cent to 53.8. In contrast, confidence in making major purchases of durable goods rose by 10.6 per cent to 44.6.

Consumers in the Belize District recorded the sharpest decline, with confidence dropping by 9.1 per cent, led by a 14.9 per cent fall in expectations.

Meanwhile, the Stann Creek District saw the highest increase, with sentiment rising by 11.0 per cent, reflecting stronger optimism across all components.

SIB reported that rural consumers were more confident overall, reporting a 2.0 per cent increase in CCI, while urban sentiment fell by 3.8 per cent.

The report also stated that female consumers showed a 16.9 per cent increase in confidence regarding purchases of durable goods, despite an overall drop in optimism.