European Union Rep Says Belize Will Withstand Loss of Sugar Quota

Gavin Tench

In October of this year, the EU regime changes allowing for European beet sugar to compete directly with sugar cane. For the past ten years the E.U. has been working with the local industry in the north to prepare and adjust to the upcoming change. In an interview with the media today, E.U. Political Counselor Gavin Tench says that he is confident that the industry in Belize will strengthen because while the assistance to the sugar program will seize, the partnership with government in other areas continues.

Gavin Tench, Political Counselor, European Delegation/Belize

“One of the key driving factors is world market prices and unfortunately, none of us has a crystal ball. So, I think there is the healthy approach of hope for the best and plan for all sorts of contingencies. But, as I say, the industry has got a solid foundation and has been preparing carefully for the year ahead.”

Reporter

“Will the assistance continue on behalf of the E.U.?”

Gavin Tench

“The assistance directly on the sugar programme will cease on that point. But the overall level of assistance to Belize; our partnership with the Belize Government continues and grow from strength to strength. Delighted to say that Belize was the only country in the Caribbean in the last negotiations for development funds to actually receive an increase. So, we working very closely with the national authorizing office here will see a lot of work going forward in the areas of energy health, public finance management. So, nobody should be under the illusion that this is an end, maybe we may be changing our focus – or shift of focus but our partnership is enduring and it will get bigger and better.”