Scrap metal industry now regulated
The emergent scrap metal industry is also facing government scrutiny. The Ministry of Natural Resources and the Environment intends to whip the scrap metal business into shape by introducing new regulations. According to a release from the ministry, the collection, storage, transportation and exportation of scraps will be controlled through a licensing system. The Scrap Metal Recyclers Regulation number thirty-six of 2011 states that all dealers and recyclers must apply to the Department of the Environment (D.O.E.) for a license, which would be valid for twelve months. Transportation of scrap metals will only be allowed via authorized trucks, with visible identification. Those trucks are not to travel on the Arenal, Calla Creek, Jalacte and Bullet Tree roads. The regulations also prohibit the exportation of copper, bronze and materials which are considered antiquities or artifacts under the NICH Act. Anyone found in possession of any prohibited materials can be detained and face a fine no less than ten thousand dollars. Finally, scrap metal dealers are required to obtain an export permit from the D.O.E. for each shipment and pay the necessary fees. The regulations are retroactive to April sixteenth.
I don’t know what licenses you are going to need next, maybe you need a special license to go use the bathroom next. lol
Ok…an information for D.O.E., this scrap metal thing is a daily activity in Benque Viejo and San Ignacio Town where individuals are continuously taking out SCRAP METAL via the BWBS official point of entry in small quantities; in small pickups, taxis, bicycles and even on their shoulder.
It is an ant like activity occurring through that border point of entry, if officials of D.O.E. are serious in controlling this activity them they must patrol the principal streets of Benque Viejo Town and believe you me, in one week time, they will be able to seized more than a ton of scrap metal going out of Belize without paying any licenses…..so D.O.E. kindly get yourselves to Benque and see for yourselves….OUR COUNTRY NEED REVENUES….
“copper, bronze and materials which are considered antiquities or artifacts under the NICH Act”
WHAT? This is the most stupid thing I have ever heard.
We are getting worse than Cuba.
Clifford and Mr. Say Muda. I totally agree with this new law. Homes are continuously broken into for the stealing of the wiring for Copper. This is very expensive for a homeowner and the utility companies. The losses are very substantial. The law wasn’t made to hinder any legitimate business activity or for another source of income for the government but to quell the copper theft that is occuring daily. Just understand the reasoning behind the law.