The Price of Ramen Going Up?

The debate over a potential increase in ramen prices has cleared its second reading in the Senate. It adds to the growing concerns over the rising cost of living in Belize.

The bill proposes a 20% tariff on imported ramen and similar products. The Government says the move is meant to support local production. “The intention is to vary the duty on imported ramen and set a rate that makes it competitive for the local producer in order to create jobs and stimulate economic activity in Belize,” said Senator for Government Business Eamon Courtenay.

In practical terms, imported noodles could become more expensive, giving locally made brands like Manna noodles, produced by the Caribbean Organic Food Stuff Company in Carmelita Village, Orange Walk, a better chance to compete.

With fuel prices up and grocery bills already stretching households thin, ramen has remained one of the last budget-friendly, filling options on store shelves. Ramen became a staple as inflation drove food prices up by more than 12% in 2023.

Opposition Senator Patrick Faber pushed back against the bill strongly, warning that the change will hit those already struggling. “These products are not luxury items; they are survival foods for many households. Students rely on them; working parents and single-income families rely on them, and any adjustment in tariff classification or replacement duty structures that increases the cost of these items directly affects the most vulnerable citizens of this country,” he said.

Faber also pointed to earlier increases in ramen prices, stating, “Before you could get 4-5 ramen noodles for a dollar.” He argued that while the Government says it is abiding by international agreements, it should not come at the expense of citizens, stating, “Compliance with treaties must never replace the responsibility to protect the Belizean consumer.”

Meanwhile, PUP Senator Christopher Coye rejected claims of “protectionism”, calling it instead “strategic trade policy.” He argued local producers are disadvantaged by duties on imported ingredients, while finished imports face fewer costs.

“The manufacturing of the same ramen noodles, you have an application of duty that puts the local manufacturer at a competitive disadvantage. In time I think what will be needed is a more comprehensive approach and a shift away from import duty into excise duty, but we’re a ways away from that,” Senator Coye added.

The bigger question remains whether boosting local production should come at the expense of affordability for families already struggling to keep food on the table.