Ministry of Agriculture Reviews Future of Sugar Sector During Santander Tour

Minister of Agriculture, Food Security and New Growth Industries, Rodwell Ferguson, along with Minister of State Alex Balona, carried out an official visit today to the Santander Sugar Factory, where they engaged in strategic discussions on the future of Belize’s sugar industry.  The ministers met with company executives for an in-depth review of sugar markets, current pricing trends, and the overall movement of the industry at the local, regional, and international levels. The discussions also focused on Santander’s long-term vision, including its plans to expand operations through the development of a modern sugar refinery, an advancement that could significantly boost value-added production and strengthen Belize’s position in the global sugar market.  As part of the visit, Ministers Ferguson and Balona were taken on a guided tour of the facility. They observed the factory’s industrial operations, visited cane fields currently under harvest, and received a briefing at the company’s research facility, where innovations in cane varieties and productivity are being developed.

The Ministry’s visit underscores the government’s commitment to supporting a resilient and competitive sugar industry, ensuring that Belize remains a strong player in regional agricultural development