Belize Telemedia's $80M Speednet Deal Sparks Union and Business Backlash

Belize Telemedia Limited (BTL) has moved forward with an $80 million proposal to acquire Speednet Communications Limited, the operator of the Smart brand. The board approved the purchase, which would place the country’s two major telecom providers, Digi and Smart, under a single ownership structure.

Labor groups including the National Trade Union Congress of Belize, the Public Service Union and the Belize Chamber of Commerce and Industry have staged protests outside BTL’s headquarters, demanding greater transparency and legislative safeguards. BCCI President Giacomo Sanchez warned that the deal was rushed without proper consumer‑protection regulations, while union leaders such as Ella Waight and BCWU President Jermaine Williams called for a public consultation before the transaction proceeds.

The final decision now rests with Belize’s Public Utilities Commission, which must assess whether the merger serves the public interest and protects competition.