Economy
The World Bank in 2013 ranked Belize’s over US$1.6 billion gross domestic product (GDP) one hundred-seventieth out of 192 countries measured. The Legatum Institute ranked Belize sixtieth out of 142 countries on its Economy Sub-Index (2014).
Belize has an economy based primarily on agriculture, tourism and services. Agriculture represents 70 percent of all exports, but tourism is the country’s largest foreign exchange earner. Travel and tourism represents about one-third of the country’s GDP. Sector growth areas for 2014 will be tourism, agro-manufacturing, agriculture, construction and telecommunications. Exports in 2013 were US$331 million and imports US$933 million, according to the Statistical Institute of Brazil (2014). Belize’s largest trading partner is the United States.
Belize remains one of the smallest consumer markets in the Central America and Caribbean regions. Its domestic market is the third smallest in the world. In order to protect certain industries, the government maintains a list of 25 categories of products that require import licenses, mostly consumer goods.
Although Belize has the second highest per capita income in Central America, a large income disparity remains between rich and poor. Nearly four out of 10 Belizeans still live in poverty. After a 1.5 percent 2013 GDP growth rate, the government of Belize forecasts a 2.2 percent growth rate in 2015. Unemployment is forecast at 9.4 percent and inflation 1.8 percent.
Finding a Job
Unemployment in Belize remains high and the government actively enforces immigration and labor laws to protect the domestic job market. However, if you have a needed skill and the employer cannot find a qualified Belizean, you can get a Work Permit and be hired. You must be a resident of Belize for six months to qualify for a Work Permit.
One advantage you will have is fluency in the native tongue: English. Tourism-related jobs provide the best opportunity since that industry is such an important part of Belize’s economy. An estimated one out of four jobs in Belize is tourism-related.
Job search strategies you can use in Belize are similar to the U.S. Industry associations are an excellent way to find out about international opportunities in your field. Check job listings in local newspapers and online. Also search both global and local online employment sites. Be sure to send unsolicited applications to targeted employers and contact temporary work or staffing agencies online or onsite. Most importantly, check out local online forums and bulletin boards in the area you have chosen. Locals can be a great source for opportunities.
To get you started, here is a website that may help you in your job search:
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