Tax Reform Delayed, SARA Now Set for 2027

Big changes to Belize’s tax services are still coming, but not as soon as expected. The government has officially extended the timeline for launching the Semi-Autonomous Revenue Authority, known as SARA. It will now go into effect in 2027, allowing for a one-year grace period before the transition begins.

For now, the Belize Tax Services Department will continue operating as usual. Meanwhile, officials are ironing out key details, including staff salaries, insurance coverage, and job roles, once SARA takes over.

SARA is part of a broader effort to modernise how Belize collects and manages taxes. The government says the new system will be more efficient and user-friendly, especially with digital tools like the IRIS Belize Portal.

But not everyone is convinced. The Public Service Union (PSU), which represents many of the workers affected, has raised serious concerns. They say they weren’t properly consulted and worry about how the change will impact employees, costs, and even national revenue.

Tensions flared recently after the PSU’s letter to the Prime Minister reportedly went unanswered for weeks, prompting talk of a possible strike.

With the new 2027 timeline, the government seems to be taking a more cautious approach. Whether that will calm tensions with the union remains to be seen.