New Bill Seeks to Formalize Government Investment in National Bus Company

Among the new bills introduced at Friday’s House meeting was the Public Transportation Investment Bill, 2026. The proposed legislation seeks to formalize the Government’s investment in the National Bus Company, or NBC, and support the continued modernization of Belize’s intercity bus system.  The bill provides for the transfer of certain public transportation assets to the NBC and grants tax exemptions to support its operations. Minister of Transportation Dr. Louis Zabaneh says highway intercity bus operators were consulted before the company was established.  Zabaneh says between eight thousand and twelve thousand Belizeans use the intercity bus system daily, making public transportation a backbone of the economy. He says the sector deteriorated significantly over the past twenty-five years, leaving commuters with unreliable and unsafe services. According to the Minister, the Government decided against temporary solutions and instead pursued a public-private partnership through the NBC.

Zabaneh says the NBC now provides coverage along the entire southern corridor and eighty-three percent of the western corridor. He also reported a significant reduction in racing incidents and mechanical breakdowns.  The company is investing in newer air-conditioned buses, improved terminals and onboard cameras to strengthen passenger safety and monitoring. Eight newer Blue Bird buses have been acquired so far, while the bill also supports a gradual transition to electric buses beginning in 2027.  The Public Transportation Investment Bill has been referred to House committee for further consideration./