Rising Fuel Costs Trigger Petén Roadblocks

Road blockades across Guatemala’s Petén Department are disrupting key routes near the Belize border. It is part of the Guatemalan transport operators’ escalating protests over rising fuel costs.

According to an official notice issued by transport leader Carmencita Deyadira Luna Corado, demonstrators took to the streets from 6:00 a.m. on Monday, citing “the excessive increase in fuel prices, the cost of basic goods, and the mandatory use of E10 ethanol fuel”.

Local news outlets have reported that several areas in Sayaxché have already been affected, including the exit towards Parque El Rosario, with additional blockages expected along main entry and exit points and transport routes serving nearby communities.

The wider protest is part of a national mobilisation by transporters, with planned disruptions also reported in Poptún, La Libertad, and routes leading to the border at Melchor de Mencos, a major corridor used by Belizeans travelling to and from Petén.

Travellers are advised to reconsider non-essential trips, plan for delays and stay updated.