Belize Cabinet deliberates on BTL-SMART acquisition proposal

The Belize Cabinet is deliberating on a proposed acquisition of BTL by SMART. During recent meetings in Belmopan, the Cabinet received presentations from BTL, the Social Security Board, and the Public Utilities Commission (PUC) regarding the commercial, shareholder, and regulatory implications of the deal.

Prime Minister John Briceño stated that the Cabinet has not yet voted in favor of the merger but has authorized members to proceed with gathering necessary information. The PUC noted that while the merger falls under existing regulatory frameworks, a statutory instrument has been passed to freeze prices until December 2028 to allow for the development of proper regulations should the merger proceed.

Cabinet Minister Orlando Habet acknowledged public pressure and potential opposition from unions, noting that the decision must consider various stakeholders, including the Social Security Board, which holds investments in BTL. To ensure an informed decision, the government has invited representatives from the National Trade Union Congress of Belize (NTUCB) and the Chamber of Commerce to present their views on whether the merger serves the best interests of Belizean taxpayers.