Knelstrom Intelligence · World Factbook
Belize
CapitalBelmopan
Population422,924
GDP$3.3bn
Area22,966 km²
RegionLatin America & Caribbean
Data sources current · last checked September 20, 2026 2:10 am
Country facts
Overview
Background
Belize was the site of several Mayan city states until their decline at the end of the first millennium A.D. The British and Spanish disputed the region in the 17th and 18th centuries; it formally became the colony of British Honduras in 1862. Territorial disputes between the UK and Guatemala delayed the independence of Belize until 1981. Guatemala refused to recognize the new nation until 1992, and the two countries are still involved in an ongoing border dispute. Tourism has become the mainstay of the economy. Current concerns include the country's heavy foreign debt burden, high crime rates, high unemployment combined with a majority youth population, growing involvement in the Mexican and South American drug trade, and one of the highest HIV/AIDS prevalence rates in Central America.
Reference: 1992, 1981Geography
Location
Central America, bordering the Caribbean Sea, between Guatemala and Mexico
Map references
Central America and the Caribbean
Area
total: 22,966 sq km
land: 22,806 sq km
water: 160 sq km
land: 22,806 sq km
water: 160 sq km
Area - comparative
slightly smaller than Massachusetts
Land boundaries
total: 542 km
border countries: Guatemala 266 km; Mexico 276 km
border countries: Guatemala 266 km; Mexico 276 km
Coastline
386 km
Maritime claims
territorial sea: 12 nm in the north, 3 nm in the south
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
note: note: from the mouth of the Sarstoon River to Ranguana Cay, Belize's territorial sea is 3 nm; according to Belize's Maritime Areas Act (1992), the purpose of this limit is to provide a framework for negotiating a definitive agreement on territorial differences with Guatemala
Reference: 1992exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
note: note: from the mouth of the Sarstoon River to Ranguana Cay, Belize's territorial sea is 3 nm; according to Belize's Maritime Areas Act (1992), the purpose of this limit is to provide a framework for negotiating a definitive agreement on territorial differences with Guatemala
Climate
tropical; very hot and humid; rainy season (May to November); dry season (February to May)
Terrain
flat, swampy coastal plain; low mountains in south
Elevation
highest point: Doyle's Delight 1,124 m
lowest point: Caribbean Sea 0 m
mean elevation: 173 m
lowest point: Caribbean Sea 0 m
mean elevation: 173 m
Natural resources
arable land potential, timber, fish, hydropower
Land use
agricultural land: 8% (2023 est.)
agricultural land: arable land: arable land: 4.4% (2023 est.)
agricultural land: permanent crops: permanent crops: 1.4% (2023 est.)
agricultural land: permanent pasture: permanent pasture: 2.2% (2023 est.)
forest: 58.3% (2023 est.)
other: 33.7% (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023agricultural land: arable land: arable land: 4.4% (2023 est.)
agricultural land: permanent crops: permanent crops: 1.4% (2023 est.)
agricultural land: permanent pasture: permanent pasture: 2.2% (2023 est.)
forest: 58.3% (2023 est.)
other: 33.7% (2023 est.)
Irrigated land
35 sq km (2012)
Reference: 2012Population distribution
approximately 25% to 30% of the population lives in the former capital, Belize City; over half of the overall population is rural; population density is slightly higher in the north and east
Natural hazards
frequent, devastating hurricanes (June to November) and coastal flooding (especially in south)
Geography - note
only country in Central America without a coastline on the North Pacific Ocean
Population & Society
Nationality
noun: Belizean(s)
adjective: Belizean
adjective: Belizean
Ethnic groups
Mestizo 52.9%, Creole 25.9%, Maya 11.3%, Garifuna 6.1%, East Indian 3.9%, Mennonite 3.6%, White 1.2%, Asian 1%, other 1.2%, unknown 0.3% (2010 est.)
note: note: percentages add up to more than 100% because respondents were able to identify more than one ethnic origin
Reference: 2010note: note: percentages add up to more than 100% because respondents were able to identify more than one ethnic origin
Languages
Languages: English 62.9% (official), Spanish 56.6%, Creole 44.6%, Maya 10.5%, German 3.2%, Garifuna 2.9%, other 1.8%, unknown 0.5% (2010 est.)
major-language sample(s): The World Factbook, the indispensable source for basic information. (English)
La Libreta Informativa del Mundo, la fuente indispensable de información básica. (Spanish)
note: note: shares sum to more than 100% because some respondents gave more than one answer on the census
Reference: 2010major-language sample(s): The World Factbook, the indispensable source for basic information. (English)
La Libreta Informativa del Mundo, la fuente indispensable de información básica. (Spanish)
note: note: shares sum to more than 100% because some respondents gave more than one answer on the census
Religions
Roman Catholic 40.1%, Protestant 31.5% (includes Pentecostal 8.4%, Seventh Day Adventist 5.4%, Anglican 4.7%, Mennonite 3.7%, Baptist 3.6%, Methodist 2.9%, Nazarene 2.8%), Jehovah's Witness 1.7%, other 10.5% (includes Baha'i, Buddhist, Hindu, Church of Jesus Christ, Muslim, Rastafarian, Salvation Army), unspecified 0.6%, none 15.5% (2010 est.)
Reference: 2010Age structure
0-14 years: 27.7% (male 58,529/female 56,811)
15-64 years: 66.7% (male 135,903/female 141,503)
65 years and over: 5.5% (2024 est.) (male 11,463/female 11,580)
Reference: 202415-64 years: 66.7% (male 135,903/female 141,503)
65 years and over: 5.5% (2024 est.) (male 11,463/female 11,580)
Dependency ratios
total dependency ratio: 49.9 (2024 est.)
youth dependency ratio: 41.6 (2024 est.)
elderly dependency ratio: 8.3 (2024 est.)
potential support ratio: 12 (2024 est.)
Reference: 2024youth dependency ratio: 41.6 (2024 est.)
elderly dependency ratio: 8.3 (2024 est.)
potential support ratio: 12 (2024 est.)
Median age
total: 26.8 years (2024 est.)
male: 26.4 years
female: 27.2 years
Reference: 2024male: 26.4 years
female: 27.2 years
Population growth rate
1.47% (2024 est.)
Reference: 2024Birth rate
17.7 births/1,000 population (2024 est.)
Reference: 2024Death rate
5 deaths/1,000 population (2024 est.)
Reference: 2024Population distribution
approximately 25% to 30% of the population lives in the former capital, Belize City; over half of the overall population is rural; population density is slightly higher in the north and east
Major urban areas - population
23,000 BELMOPAN (capital) (2018)
Reference: 2018Sex ratio
at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female
0-14 years: 1.03 male(s)/female
15-64 years: 0.96 male(s)/female
65 years and over: 0.99 male(s)/female
total population: 0.98 male(s)/female (2024 est.)
Reference: 20240-14 years: 1.03 male(s)/female
15-64 years: 0.96 male(s)/female
65 years and over: 0.99 male(s)/female
total population: 0.98 male(s)/female (2024 est.)
Maternal mortality ratio
67 deaths/100,000 live births (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023Gross reproduction rate
1 (2024 est.)
Reference: 2024Drinking water source
improved: urban: urban: 98.9% of population (2022 est.)
improved: rural: rural: 98% of population (2022 est.)
improved: total: total: 98.4% of population (2022 est.)
unimproved: urban: urban: 1.1% of population (2022 est.)
unimproved: rural: rural: 2% of population (2022 est.)
unimproved: total: total: 1.6% of population (2022 est.)
Reference: 2022improved: rural: rural: 98% of population (2022 est.)
improved: total: total: 98.4% of population (2022 est.)
unimproved: urban: urban: 1.1% of population (2022 est.)
unimproved: rural: rural: 2% of population (2022 est.)
unimproved: total: total: 1.6% of population (2022 est.)
Health expenditure
Health expenditure (as % of GDP): 5% of GDP (2021)
Health expenditure (as % of national budget): 11.5% of national budget (2022 est.)
Reference: 2022, 2021Health expenditure (as % of national budget): 11.5% of national budget (2022 est.)
Physician density
1.09 physicians/1,000 population (2018)
Reference: 2018Hospital bed density
1 beds/1,000 population (2018 est.)
Reference: 2018Sanitation facility access
improved: urban: urban: 99.1% of population (2022 est.)
improved: rural: rural: 95.7% of population (2022 est.)
improved: total: total: 97.3% of population (2022 est.)
unimproved: urban: urban: 0.9% of population (2022 est.)
unimproved: rural: rural: 4.3% of population (2022 est.)
unimproved: total: total: 2.7% of population (2022 est.)
Reference: 2022improved: rural: rural: 95.7% of population (2022 est.)
improved: total: total: 97.3% of population (2022 est.)
unimproved: urban: urban: 0.9% of population (2022 est.)
unimproved: rural: rural: 4.3% of population (2022 est.)
unimproved: total: total: 2.7% of population (2022 est.)
Obesity - adult prevalence rate
24.1% (2016)
Reference: 2016Alcohol consumption per capita
total: 5.93 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
beer: 3.88 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
wine: 0.68 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
spirits: 1.19 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
other alcohols: 0.17 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
Reference: 2019beer: 3.88 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
wine: 0.68 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
spirits: 1.19 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
other alcohols: 0.17 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
Tobacco use
total: 8.3% (2025 est.)
male: 14.8% (2025 est.)
female: 1.8% (2025 est.)
male: 14.8% (2025 est.)
female: 1.8% (2025 est.)
Children under the age of 5 years underweight
4.6% (2015/16)
Reference: 2015Currently married women (ages 15-49)
64.3% (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023Child marriage
women married by age 15: 6.3% (2016)
women married by age 18: 33.5% (2016)
men married by age 18: 22.2% (2016)
Reference: 2016women married by age 18: 33.5% (2016)
men married by age 18: 22.2% (2016)
School life expectancy (primary to tertiary education)
total: 12 years (2023 est.)
male: 12 years (2023 est.)
female: 12 years (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023male: 12 years (2023 est.)
female: 12 years (2023 est.)
Migration & Displacement
Immigrant/emigrant stock measures the number of international migrants resident in, or originating from, the country; it is not the same as annual immigration/emigration flows.
Refugees and internally displaced persons
refugees: 2,287 (2024 est.)
IDPs: 8 (2024 est.)
Reference: 2024IDPs: 8 (2024 est.)
Government & Politics
| Office | Holder | Affiliation | From | Status | Evidence |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Head of state | Charles III | — | 2022-09-08 | Current | Reported |
| Head of government | Johnny Briceño | — | 2020-11-12 | Current | Reported |
Country name
conventional long form: none
conventional short form: Belize
former: British Honduras
etymology: traditionally believed to be derived from the Spanish pronunciation of the last name of Scottish explorer Peter Wallace, who settled in the area in 1638; alternatively, may be named for the Belize River, whose name possibly derives from the Maya word "belix," meaning "muddy-watered"
conventional short form: Belize
former: British Honduras
etymology: traditionally believed to be derived from the Spanish pronunciation of the last name of Scottish explorer Peter Wallace, who settled in the area in 1638; alternatively, may be named for the Belize River, whose name possibly derives from the Maya word "belix," meaning "muddy-watered"
Capital
name: Belmopan
geographic coordinates: 17 15 N, 88 46 W
time difference: UTC-6 (1 hour behind Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: the name is formed from two words: "Belize," the name of the longest river in the country, and "Mopan," one of the rivers in the area that empties into the Belize River
geographic coordinates: 17 15 N, 88 46 W
time difference: UTC-6 (1 hour behind Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: the name is formed from two words: "Belize," the name of the longest river in the country, and "Mopan," one of the rivers in the area that empties into the Belize River
Administrative divisions
6 districts; Belize, Cayo, Corozal, Orange Walk, Stann Creek, Toledo
Legal system
English common law
Constitution
history: previous 1954, 1963 (pre-independence); latest signed and entered into force 21 September 1981
amendment process: proposed and adopted by two-thirds majority vote of the National Assembly House of Representatives except for amendments relating to rights and freedoms, changes to the Assembly, and to elections and judiciary matters, which require at least three-quarters majority vote of the House; both types of amendments require assent of the governor general
Reference: 1981, 1963, 1954amendment process: proposed and adopted by two-thirds majority vote of the National Assembly House of Representatives except for amendments relating to rights and freedoms, changes to the Assembly, and to elections and judiciary matters, which require at least three-quarters majority vote of the House; both types of amendments require assent of the governor general
International law organization participation
has not submitted an ICJ jurisdiction declaration; accepts ICCt jurisdiction
Citizenship
citizenship by birth: yes
citizenship by descent only: yes
dual citizenship recognized: yes
residency requirement for naturalization: 5 years
citizenship by descent only: yes
dual citizenship recognized: yes
residency requirement for naturalization: 5 years
Suffrage
18 years of age; universal
Executive branch
chief of state: King CHARLES III (since 8 September 2022); represented by Governor-General Froyla TZALAM (since 27 May 2021)
head of government: Prime Minister John BRICEÑO (since 12 November 2020)
cabinet: governor general appoints Cabinet from among members of the National Assembly, on the advice of the prime minister
election/appointment process: the monarchy is hereditary; governor-general appointed by the monarch; following legislative elections, the leader of the majority party or majority coalition usually appointed prime minister by the governor-general; prime minister recommends the deputy prime minister
Reference: 2022, 2021, 2020head of government: Prime Minister John BRICEÑO (since 12 November 2020)
cabinet: governor general appoints Cabinet from among members of the National Assembly, on the advice of the prime minister
election/appointment process: the monarchy is hereditary; governor-general appointed by the monarch; following legislative elections, the leader of the majority party or majority coalition usually appointed prime minister by the governor-general; prime minister recommends the deputy prime minister
Legislative branch
legislature name: National Assembly
legislative structure: bicameral
note:
legislative structure: bicameral
note:
Legislative branch - lower chamber
chamber name: House of Representatives
number of seats: 32 (all directly elected)
electoral system: plurality/majority
scope of elections: full renewal
term in office: 5 years
most recent election date: 3/12/2025
parties elected and seats per party: People's United Party (PUP) (26); United Democratic Party (UDP) (5)
percentage of women in chamber: 12.5%
expected date of next election: March 2030
Reference: 2030, 2025number of seats: 32 (all directly elected)
electoral system: plurality/majority
scope of elections: full renewal
term in office: 5 years
most recent election date: 3/12/2025
parties elected and seats per party: People's United Party (PUP) (26); United Democratic Party (UDP) (5)
percentage of women in chamber: 12.5%
expected date of next election: March 2030
Legislative branch - upper chamber
chamber name: Senate
number of seats: 13 (all appointed)
scope of elections: full renewal
term in office: 5 years
most recent election date: 5/9/2025
percentage of women in chamber: 35.7%
expected date of next election: May 2030
Reference: 2030, 2025number of seats: 13 (all appointed)
scope of elections: full renewal
term in office: 5 years
most recent election date: 5/9/2025
percentage of women in chamber: 35.7%
expected date of next election: May 2030
Judicial branch
highest court(s): Supreme Court of Judicature (consists of the Court of Appeal with the court president and 3 justices, and the Supreme Court with the chief justice and 10 justices); the Caribbean Court of Justice is the final court of appeal
judge selection and term of office: Court of Appeal president and justices appointed by the governor-general upon advice of the prime minister after consultation with the National Assembly opposition leader; justices' tenures vary by terms of appointment; Supreme Court chief justice appointed by the governor-general upon the advice of the prime minister and the National Assembly opposition leader; other judges appointed by the governor-general upon the advice of the Judicial and Legal Services Section of the Public Services Commission and with the concurrence of the prime minister after consultation with the National Assembly opposition leader; judges can be appointed beyond age 65 but must retire by age 75
subordinate courts: Magistrates' Courts; Family Court
judge selection and term of office: Court of Appeal president and justices appointed by the governor-general upon advice of the prime minister after consultation with the National Assembly opposition leader; justices' tenures vary by terms of appointment; Supreme Court chief justice appointed by the governor-general upon the advice of the prime minister and the National Assembly opposition leader; other judges appointed by the governor-general upon the advice of the Judicial and Legal Services Section of the Public Services Commission and with the concurrence of the prime minister after consultation with the National Assembly opposition leader; judges can be appointed beyond age 65 but must retire by age 75
subordinate courts: Magistrates' Courts; Family Court
Political parties
Belize People’s Front or BPF
Belize Progressive Party or BPP (formed in 2015 from a merger of the People's National Party, elements of the Vision Inspired by the People, and other smaller political groups)
People's United Party or PUP
United Democratic Party or UDP
Vision Inspired by the People or VIP
Reference: 2015Belize Progressive Party or BPP (formed in 2015 from a merger of the People's National Party, elements of the Vision Inspired by the People, and other smaller political groups)
People's United Party or PUP
United Democratic Party or UDP
Vision Inspired by the People or VIP
Diplomatic representation in the US
chief of mission: Ambassador Lynn Raymond YOUNG (since 7 July 2021)
chancery: 2535 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008-2826
telephone: [1] (202) 332-9636
FAX: [1] (202) 332-6888
email address and website: reception.usa@mfa.gov.bz
https://www.belizeembassyusa.mfa.gov.bz/
consulate(s) general: Chicago, Los Angeles, Miami, New York
Reference: 2021chancery: 2535 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008-2826
telephone: [1] (202) 332-9636
FAX: [1] (202) 332-6888
email address and website: reception.usa@mfa.gov.bz
https://www.belizeembassyusa.mfa.gov.bz/
consulate(s) general: Chicago, Los Angeles, Miami, New York
Diplomatic representation from the US
chief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); Chargé d'Affaires Katharine BEAMER (since 23 August 2025)
embassy: 4 Floral Park Road, Belmopan, Cayo
mailing address: 3050 Belmopan Place, Washington DC 20521-3050
telephone: (501) 822-4011
FAX: (501) 822-4012
email address and website: ACSBelize@state.gov
https://bz.usembassy.gov/
embassy: 4 Floral Park Road, Belmopan, Cayo
mailing address: 3050 Belmopan Place, Washington DC 20521-3050
telephone: (501) 822-4011
FAX: (501) 822-4012
email address and website: ACSBelize@state.gov
https://bz.usembassy.gov/
International organization participation
ACP, ACS, AOSIS, C, Caricom, CD, CDB, CELAC, FAO, G-77, IADB, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC (NGOs), ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, Interpol, IOC, IOM, ITU, LAES, MIGA, NAM, OAS, OPANAL, OPCW, PCA, Petrocaribe, SICA, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WCO, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Independence
21 September 1981 (from the UK)
Reference: 1981National holiday
Battle of St. George's Caye Day (National Day), 10 September (1798); Independence Day, 21 September (1981)
Reference: 1981Flag
description: royal blue with a narrow red stripe along the top and the bottom edges; the coat of arms is on a large white disk at the center and shows a shield flanked by two workers in front of a mahogany tree, with the motto SUB UMBRA FLOREO (I Flourish in the Shade) on a scroll at the bottom; a green garland of 50 mahogany leaves rings the coat of arms
meaning: the figures, the mahogany tree, and the garland refer to the logging industry that led the British to settle Belize; blue and red are the colors of the two main political parties
note: note: Belize has the only national flag that depicts humans; the flags of two British overseas territories, Montserrat and the British Virgin Islands, also depict humans
meaning: the figures, the mahogany tree, and the garland refer to the logging industry that led the British to settle Belize; blue and red are the colors of the two main political parties
note: note: Belize has the only national flag that depicts humans; the flags of two British overseas territories, Montserrat and the British Virgin Islands, also depict humans
National symbol(s)
Baird's tapir (a large forest-dwelling mammal), keel-billed toucan, black orchid
National color(s)
red, blue
National anthem(s)
title: "God Save the King"
lyrics/music: unknown
history: royal anthem, as a Commonwealth country
lyrics/music: unknown
history: royal anthem, as a Commonwealth country
National heritage
total World Heritage Sites: 1 (natural)
selected World Heritage Site locales: Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System
selected World Heritage Site locales: Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System
Government & Official Links
| Institution | Official website | X / Twitter | Verification |
|---|---|---|---|
| Belize official website | Official website | — | Reported · source Checked September 20, 2026 |
Institutional accounts only; personal accounts of political office-holders are excluded.
Legislature & Elections
Legislature
| Name | Chamber | Seats | Electoral system |
|---|---|---|---|
| National Assembly | — | — | — |
Economy
Economic overview
tourism- and agriculture-driven economy; strong post-pandemic rebound; innovative and ecological bond restructuring that significantly lowered public debt and expanded marine protections; central bank offering USD-denominated treasury notes; high mobility across borders
Real GDP (purchasing power parity)
Real GDP (purchasing power parity) 2024: $5.538 billion (2024 est.)
Real GDP (purchasing power parity) 2023: $5.12 billion (2023 est.)
Real GDP (purchasing power parity) 2022: $5.062 billion (2022 est.)
note: note: data in 2021 dollars
Reference: 2024, 2023, 2022, 2021Real GDP (purchasing power parity) 2023: $5.12 billion (2023 est.)
Real GDP (purchasing power parity) 2022: $5.062 billion (2022 est.)
note: note: data in 2021 dollars
Real GDP per capita
Real GDP per capita 2024: $13,300 (2024 est.)
Real GDP per capita 2023: $12,500 (2023 est.)
Real GDP per capita 2022: $12,600 (2022 est.)
note: note: data in 2021 dollars
Reference: 2024, 2023, 2022, 2021Real GDP per capita 2023: $12,500 (2023 est.)
Real GDP per capita 2022: $12,600 (2022 est.)
note: note: data in 2021 dollars
GDP - composition, by sector of origin
agriculture: 8.1% (2023 est.)
industry: 14.3% (2023 est.)
services: 62.4% (2023 est.)
note: note: figures may not total 100% due to non-allocated consumption not captured in sector-reported data
Reference: 2023industry: 14.3% (2023 est.)
services: 62.4% (2023 est.)
note: note: figures may not total 100% due to non-allocated consumption not captured in sector-reported data
GDP - composition, by end use
household consumption: 62.9% (2023 est.)
government consumption: 15.7% (2023 est.)
investment in fixed capital: 20.6% (2023 est.)
investment in inventories: -2.3% (2023 est.)
exports of goods and services: 55.3% (2023 est.)
imports of goods and services: -51.2% (2023 est.)
note: note: figures may not total 100% due to rounding or gaps in data collection
Reference: 2023government consumption: 15.7% (2023 est.)
investment in fixed capital: 20.6% (2023 est.)
investment in inventories: -2.3% (2023 est.)
exports of goods and services: 55.3% (2023 est.)
imports of goods and services: -51.2% (2023 est.)
note: note: figures may not total 100% due to rounding or gaps in data collection
Agricultural products
sugarcane, maize, bananas, sorghum, soybeans, chicken, rice, oranges, fruits, plantains (2023)
note: note: top ten agricultural products based on tonnage
Reference: 2023note: note: top ten agricultural products based on tonnage
Industries
garment production, food processing, tourism, construction, oil
Industrial production growth rate
4.8% (2024 est.)
note: note: annual % change in industrial value added based on constant local currency
Reference: 2024note: note: annual % change in industrial value added based on constant local currency
Labor force
190,000 (2024 est.)
note: note: number of people ages 15 or older who are employed or seeking work
Reference: 2024note: note: number of people ages 15 or older who are employed or seeking work
Youth unemployment rate (ages 15-24)
total: 16.3% (2024 est.)
male: 10.6% (2024 est.)
female: 25.6% (2024 est.)
note: note: % of labor force ages 15-24 seeking employment
Reference: 2024male: 10.6% (2024 est.)
female: 25.6% (2024 est.)
note: note: % of labor force ages 15-24 seeking employment
Gini Index coefficient - distribution of family income
Gini Index coefficient - distribution of family income 2018: 39.9 (2018 est.)
note: note: index (0-100) of income distribution; higher values represent greater inequality
Reference: 2018note: note: index (0-100) of income distribution; higher values represent greater inequality
Household income or consumption by percentage share
lowest 10%: 2.2% (2018 est.)
highest 10%: 30% (2018 est.)
note: note: % share of income accruing to lowest and highest 10% of population
Reference: 2018highest 10%: 30% (2018 est.)
note: note: % share of income accruing to lowest and highest 10% of population
Remittances
Remittances 2024: 4.4% of GDP (2024 est.)
Remittances 2023: 4.9% of GDP (2023 est.)
Remittances 2022: 5% of GDP (2022 est.)
note: note: personal transfers and compensation between resident and non-resident individuals/households/entities
Reference: 2024, 2023, 2022Remittances 2023: 4.9% of GDP (2023 est.)
Remittances 2022: 5% of GDP (2022 est.)
note: note: personal transfers and compensation between resident and non-resident individuals/households/entities
Budget
revenues: $554.405 million (2017 est.)
expenditures: $506.316 million (2017 est.)
note: note: central government revenues and expenses (excluding grants/extrabudgetary units/social security funds) converted to US dollars at average official exchange rate for year indicated
Reference: 2017expenditures: $506.316 million (2017 est.)
note: note: central government revenues and expenses (excluding grants/extrabudgetary units/social security funds) converted to US dollars at average official exchange rate for year indicated
Public debt
Public debt 2017: 99% of GDP (2017 est.)
note: note: central government debt as a % of GDP
Reference: 2017note: note: central government debt as a % of GDP
Taxes and other revenues
21.3% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
note: note: central government tax revenue as a % of GDP
Reference: 2017note: note: central government tax revenue as a % of GDP
Current account balance
Current account balance 2024: -$51.762 million (2024 est.)
Current account balance 2023: -$19.761 million (2023 est.)
Current account balance 2022: -$235.566 million (2022 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - net trade and primary/secondary income in current dollars
Reference: 2024, 2023, 2022Current account balance 2023: -$19.761 million (2023 est.)
Current account balance 2022: -$235.566 million (2022 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - net trade and primary/secondary income in current dollars
Exports
Exports 2024: $1.64 billion (2024 est.)
Exports 2023: $1.536 billion (2023 est.)
Exports 2022: $1.369 billion (2022 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - exports of goods and services in current dollars
Reference: 2024, 2023, 2022Exports 2023: $1.536 billion (2023 est.)
Exports 2022: $1.369 billion (2022 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - exports of goods and services in current dollars
Exports - partners
USA 22%, UK 14%, Spain 9%, Guatemala 7%, Portugal 5% (2023)
note: note: top five export partners based on percentage share of exports
Reference: 2023note: note: top five export partners based on percentage share of exports
Exports - commodities
raw sugar, bananas, fish, shellfish, refined petroleum (2023)
note: note: top five export commodities based on value in dollars
Reference: 2023note: note: top five export commodities based on value in dollars
Imports
Imports 2024: $1.724 billion (2024 est.)
Imports 2023: $1.573 billion (2023 est.)
Imports 2022: $1.574 billion (2022 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - imports of goods and services in current dollars
Reference: 2024, 2023, 2022Imports 2023: $1.573 billion (2023 est.)
Imports 2022: $1.574 billion (2022 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - imports of goods and services in current dollars
Imports - partners
USA 37%, China 17%, Guatemala 10%, Mexico 8%, Costa Rica 6% (2023)
note: note: top five import partners based on percentage share of imports
Reference: 2023note: note: top five import partners based on percentage share of imports
Imports - commodities
refined petroleum, orthopedic appliances, ships, garments, tobacco (2023)
note: note: top five import commodities based on value in dollars
Reference: 2023note: note: top five import commodities based on value in dollars
Reserves of foreign exchange and gold
Reserves of foreign exchange and gold 2024: $498.087 million (2024 est.)
Reserves of foreign exchange and gold 2023: $473.729 million (2023 est.)
Reserves of foreign exchange and gold 2022: $482.146 million (2022 est.)
note: note: holdings of gold (year-end prices)/foreign exchange/special drawing rights in current dollars
Reference: 2024, 2023, 2022Reserves of foreign exchange and gold 2023: $473.729 million (2023 est.)
Reserves of foreign exchange and gold 2022: $482.146 million (2022 est.)
note: note: holdings of gold (year-end prices)/foreign exchange/special drawing rights in current dollars
Debt - external
Debt - external 2023: $1.235 billion (2023 est.)
note: note: present value of external debt in current US dollars
Reference: 2023note: note: present value of external debt in current US dollars
Exchange rates
Currency: Belizean dollars (BZD) per US dollar -
Exchange rates 2024: 2 (2024 est.)
Exchange rates 2023: 2 (2023 est.)
Exchange rates 2022: 2 (2022 est.)
Exchange rates 2021: 2 (2021 est.)
Exchange rates 2020: 2 (2020 est.)
Reference: 2024, 2023, 2022, 2021Exchange rates 2024: 2 (2024 est.)
Exchange rates 2023: 2 (2023 est.)
Exchange rates 2022: 2 (2022 est.)
Exchange rates 2021: 2 (2021 est.)
Exchange rates 2020: 2 (2020 est.)
Trade
Current account balance
Current account balance 2024: -$51.762 million (2024 est.)
Current account balance 2023: -$19.761 million (2023 est.)
Current account balance 2022: -$235.566 million (2022 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - net trade and primary/secondary income in current dollars
Reference: 2024, 2023, 2022Current account balance 2023: -$19.761 million (2023 est.)
Current account balance 2022: -$235.566 million (2022 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - net trade and primary/secondary income in current dollars
Exports
Exports 2024: $1.64 billion (2024 est.)
Exports 2023: $1.536 billion (2023 est.)
Exports 2022: $1.369 billion (2022 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - exports of goods and services in current dollars
Reference: 2024, 2023, 2022Exports 2023: $1.536 billion (2023 est.)
Exports 2022: $1.369 billion (2022 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - exports of goods and services in current dollars
Exports - partners
USA 22%, UK 14%, Spain 9%, Guatemala 7%, Portugal 5% (2023)
note: note: top five export partners based on percentage share of exports
Reference: 2023note: note: top five export partners based on percentage share of exports
Exports - commodities
raw sugar, bananas, fish, shellfish, refined petroleum (2023)
note: note: top five export commodities based on value in dollars
Reference: 2023note: note: top five export commodities based on value in dollars
Imports
Imports 2024: $1.724 billion (2024 est.)
Imports 2023: $1.573 billion (2023 est.)
Imports 2022: $1.574 billion (2022 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - imports of goods and services in current dollars
Reference: 2024, 2023, 2022Imports 2023: $1.573 billion (2023 est.)
Imports 2022: $1.574 billion (2022 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - imports of goods and services in current dollars
Imports - partners
USA 37%, China 17%, Guatemala 10%, Mexico 8%, Costa Rica 6% (2023)
note: note: top five import partners based on percentage share of imports
Reference: 2023note: note: top five import partners based on percentage share of imports
Imports - commodities
refined petroleum, orthopedic appliances, ships, garments, tobacco (2023)
note: note: top five import commodities based on value in dollars
Reference: 2023note: note: top five import commodities based on value in dollars
Energy & Resources
Electricity
installed generating capacity: 220,000 kW (2023 est.)
consumption: 595.389 million kWh (2023 est.)
imports: 283.8 million kWh (2023 est.)
transmission/distribution losses: 140.519 million kWh (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023consumption: 595.389 million kWh (2023 est.)
imports: 283.8 million kWh (2023 est.)
transmission/distribution losses: 140.519 million kWh (2023 est.)
Electricity generation sources
fossil fuels: 12% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
solar: 2.4% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
hydroelectricity: 52.9% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
biomass and waste: 32.7% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023solar: 2.4% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
hydroelectricity: 52.9% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
biomass and waste: 32.7% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
Coal
imports: 32 metric tons (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023Petroleum
total petroleum production: 800 bbl/day (2023 est.)
refined petroleum consumption: 5,000 bbl/day (2023 est.)
crude oil estimated reserves: 6.7 million barrels (2021 est.)
Reference: 2023, 2021refined petroleum consumption: 5,000 bbl/day (2023 est.)
crude oil estimated reserves: 6.7 million barrels (2021 est.)
Energy consumption per capita
Total energy consumption per capita 2023: 30.752 million Btu/person (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023Infrastructure
Telephones - fixed lines
total subscriptions: 19,000 (2021 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 4 (2022 est.)
Reference: 2022, 2021subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 4 (2022 est.)
Health
Maternal mortality ratio
67 deaths/100,000 live births (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023Health expenditure
Health expenditure (as % of GDP): 5% of GDP (2021)
Health expenditure (as % of national budget): 11.5% of national budget (2022 est.)
Reference: 2022, 2021Health expenditure (as % of national budget): 11.5% of national budget (2022 est.)
Physician density
1.09 physicians/1,000 population (2018)
Reference: 2018Hospital bed density
1 beds/1,000 population (2018 est.)
Reference: 2018Obesity - adult prevalence rate
24.1% (2016)
Reference: 2016Tobacco use
total: 8.3% (2025 est.)
male: 14.8% (2025 est.)
female: 1.8% (2025 est.)
male: 14.8% (2025 est.)
female: 1.8% (2025 est.)
Education
School life expectancy (primary to tertiary education)
total: 12 years (2023 est.)
male: 12 years (2023 est.)
female: 12 years (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023male: 12 years (2023 est.)
female: 12 years (2023 est.)
Rights, Freedoms & Society
LGBTQ+ Rights & Law
Concrete legal-status fields only; Knelstrom does not generate an LGBTQ rights score or country ranking.
Source: Wikipedia — LGBTQ rights by country or territory (CC BY-SA 4.0). Community-edited legal-status summary; retrieved by Knelstrom and not legal advice.
Crime & Justice
Legal system
English common law
Judicial branch
highest court(s): Supreme Court of Judicature (consists of the Court of Appeal with the court president and 3 justices, and the Supreme Court with the chief justice and 10 justices); the Caribbean Court of Justice is the final court of appeal
judge selection and term of office: Court of Appeal president and justices appointed by the governor-general upon advice of the prime minister after consultation with the National Assembly opposition leader; justices' tenures vary by terms of appointment; Supreme Court chief justice appointed by the governor-general upon the advice of the prime minister and the National Assembly opposition leader; other judges appointed by the governor-general upon the advice of the Judicial and Legal Services Section of the Public Services Commission and with the concurrence of the prime minister after consultation with the National Assembly opposition leader; judges can be appointed beyond age 65 but must retire by age 75
subordinate courts: Magistrates' Courts; Family Court
judge selection and term of office: Court of Appeal president and justices appointed by the governor-general upon advice of the prime minister after consultation with the National Assembly opposition leader; justices' tenures vary by terms of appointment; Supreme Court chief justice appointed by the governor-general upon the advice of the prime minister and the National Assembly opposition leader; other judges appointed by the governor-general upon the advice of the Judicial and Legal Services Section of the Public Services Commission and with the concurrence of the prime minister after consultation with the National Assembly opposition leader; judges can be appointed beyond age 65 but must retire by age 75
subordinate courts: Magistrates' Courts; Family Court
Military & Security
Military and security forces
Belize Defense Force (BDF): Army, Air Wing; Belize Coast Guard (BCG) (2025)
note: note: the Ministry of National Defense and Border Security is responsible for oversight of the BDF and the Coast Guard, while the Ministry of Home Affairs and New Growth Industries has responsibility for the Belize Police Department (BPD) and prisons
note: note: the Ministry of National Defense and Border Security is responsible for oversight of the BDF and the Coast Guard, while the Ministry of Home Affairs and New Growth Industries has responsibility for the Belize Police Department (BPD) and prisons
Military expenditures
Military Expenditures 2024: 1% of GDP (2024 est.)
Military Expenditures 2023: 0.9% of GDP (2023 est.)
Military Expenditures 2022: 1.1% of GDP (2022 est.)
Military Expenditures 2021: 1.3% of GDP (2021 est.)
Military Expenditures 2020: 1.5% of GDP (2020 est.)
Reference: 2024, 2023, 2022, 2021Military Expenditures 2023: 0.9% of GDP (2023 est.)
Military Expenditures 2022: 1.1% of GDP (2022 est.)
Military Expenditures 2021: 1.3% of GDP (2021 est.)
Military Expenditures 2020: 1.5% of GDP (2020 est.)
Military and security service personnel strengths
approximately 1,500 BDF personnel (2025)
Military equipment inventories and acquisitions
the military has a small inventory consisting mostly of UK- and US-origin equipment (2024)
Reference: 2024Military service age and obligation
18-23 years of age for voluntary military service; laws allow for conscription only if volunteers are insufficient, but conscription has never been implemented; initial service obligation is 12 years (2024)
Reference: 2024Military - note
the Belize Defense Force (BDF) is responsible for external security but also provides some support to civilian authorities; it has limited powers of arrest within land and shoreline areas, while the Coast Guard has arrest powers and jurisdiction within coastal and maritime areas; the BDF traces its history back to the Prince Regent Royal Honduras Militia, a volunteer force established in 1817; the BDF was established in 1978 from the disbanded Police Special Force and the Belize Volunteer Guard to assist the resident British forces with the defense of Belize against Guatemala
the British Army has maintained a presence in Belize since its independence; the presence consists of a small training support unit that provides jungle training to troops from the UK and international partners (2025)
Reference: 2025, 1978the British Army has maintained a presence in Belize since its independence; the presence consists of a small training support unit that provides jungle training to troops from the UK and international partners (2025)
International Relations
International law organization participation
has not submitted an ICJ jurisdiction declaration; accepts ICCt jurisdiction
Diplomatic representation in the US
chief of mission: Ambassador Lynn Raymond YOUNG (since 7 July 2021)
chancery: 2535 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008-2826
telephone: [1] (202) 332-9636
FAX: [1] (202) 332-6888
email address and website: reception.usa@mfa.gov.bz
https://www.belizeembassyusa.mfa.gov.bz/
consulate(s) general: Chicago, Los Angeles, Miami, New York
Reference: 2021chancery: 2535 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008-2826
telephone: [1] (202) 332-9636
FAX: [1] (202) 332-6888
email address and website: reception.usa@mfa.gov.bz
https://www.belizeembassyusa.mfa.gov.bz/
consulate(s) general: Chicago, Los Angeles, Miami, New York
Diplomatic representation from the US
chief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); Chargé d'Affaires Katharine BEAMER (since 23 August 2025)
embassy: 4 Floral Park Road, Belmopan, Cayo
mailing address: 3050 Belmopan Place, Washington DC 20521-3050
telephone: (501) 822-4011
FAX: (501) 822-4012
email address and website: ACSBelize@state.gov
https://bz.usembassy.gov/
embassy: 4 Floral Park Road, Belmopan, Cayo
mailing address: 3050 Belmopan Place, Washington DC 20521-3050
telephone: (501) 822-4011
FAX: (501) 822-4012
email address and website: ACSBelize@state.gov
https://bz.usembassy.gov/
International organization participation
ACP, ACS, AOSIS, C, Caricom, CD, CDB, CELAC, FAO, G-77, IADB, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC (NGOs), ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, Interpol, IOC, IOM, ITU, LAES, MIGA, NAM, OAS, OPANAL, OPCW, PCA, Petrocaribe, SICA, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WCO, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Treaties & Organisations
| Organisation | Status | Joined |
|---|---|---|
| Commonwealth of Nations (Commonwealth) | member | 1981-00-00 |
| United Nations (UN) | member | 1981-09-25 |
| World Trade Organization (WTO) | member | 1995-01-01 |
International law organization participation
has not submitted an ICJ jurisdiction declaration; accepts ICCt jurisdiction
International organization participation
ACP, ACS, AOSIS, C, Caricom, CD, CDB, CELAC, FAO, G-77, IADB, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC (NGOs), ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, Interpol, IOC, IOM, ITU, LAES, MIGA, NAM, OAS, OPANAL, OPCW, PCA, Petrocaribe, SICA, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WCO, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Conflict & Security
Refugees and internally displaced persons
refugees: 2,287 (2024 est.)
IDPs: 8 (2024 est.)
Reference: 2024IDPs: 8 (2024 est.)
Illicit drugs
USG identification: major illicit drug-producing and/or drug-transit country (2025)
Transportation & Logistics
Civil aircraft registration country code prefix
V3
Airports
27 (2025)
Heliports
5 (2025)
Merchant marine
total: 774 (2023)
by type: bulk carrier 49, general cargo 410, oil tanker 64, other 251
Reference: 2023by type: bulk carrier 49, general cargo 410, oil tanker 64, other 251
Ports
total ports: 2 (2024)
large: 0
medium: 0
small: 1
very small: 0
size unknown: 1
ports with oil terminals: 1
key ports: Belize City, Big Creek
Reference: 2024large: 0
medium: 0
small: 1
very small: 0
size unknown: 1
ports with oil terminals: 1
key ports: Belize City, Big Creek
Environment
Environmental issues
deforestation; water pollution from sewage, industrial effluents, agricultural runoff; inability to properly dispose of solid waste
International environmental agreements
party to: Biodiversity, Climate Change, Climate Change-Kyoto Protocol, Climate Change-Paris Agreement, Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban, Desertification, Endangered Species, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Wetlands, Whaling
signed, but not ratified: none of the selected agreements
signed, but not ratified: none of the selected agreements
Climate
tropical; very hot and humid; rainy season (May to November); dry season (February to May)
Land use
agricultural land: 8% (2023 est.)
agricultural land: arable land: arable land: 4.4% (2023 est.)
agricultural land: permanent crops: permanent crops: 1.4% (2023 est.)
agricultural land: permanent pasture: permanent pasture: 2.2% (2023 est.)
forest: 58.3% (2023 est.)
other: 33.7% (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023agricultural land: arable land: arable land: 4.4% (2023 est.)
agricultural land: permanent crops: permanent crops: 1.4% (2023 est.)
agricultural land: permanent pasture: permanent pasture: 2.2% (2023 est.)
forest: 58.3% (2023 est.)
other: 33.7% (2023 est.)
Urbanization
urban population: 46.6% of total population (2023)
rate of urbanization: 2.3% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Reference: 2023, 2020rate of urbanization: 2.3% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Carbon dioxide emissions
total emissions: 662,000 metric tonnes of CO2 (2023 est.)
from coal and metallurgical coke: 3 metric tonnes of CO2 (2023 est.)
from petroleum and other liquids: 662,000 metric tonnes of CO2 (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023from coal and metallurgical coke: 3 metric tonnes of CO2 (2023 est.)
from petroleum and other liquids: 662,000 metric tonnes of CO2 (2023 est.)
Particulate matter emissions
10.5 micrograms per cubic meter (2019 est.)
Reference: 2019Waste and recycling
municipal solid waste generated annually: 101,400 tons (2024 est.)
percent of municipal solid waste recycled: 10.4% (2022 est.)
Reference: 2024, 2022percent of municipal solid waste recycled: 10.4% (2022 est.)
Total water withdrawal
municipal: 11.4 million cubic meters (2022 est.)
industrial: 21.2 million cubic meters (2022 est.)
agricultural: 68.4 million cubic meters (2022 est.)
Reference: 2022industrial: 21.2 million cubic meters (2022 est.)
agricultural: 68.4 million cubic meters (2022 est.)
Total renewable water resources
21.734 billion cubic meters (2022 est.)
Reference: 2022Communications & Media
Telephones - fixed lines
total subscriptions: 19,000 (2021 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 4 (2022 est.)
Reference: 2022, 2021subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 4 (2022 est.)
Broadcast media
8 privately owned TV stations; multi-channel cable TV provides access to foreign stations; about 25 radio stations broadcasting on roughly 50 different frequencies; state-run radio was privatized in 1998 (2019)
Reference: 2019, 1998Internet country code
.bz
Historical Trends
Population
Source: World Bank WDI. Historical observations shown by reference period.
View Population data table
| Period | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| 2016 | 364,705 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2017 | 373,202 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2018 | 380,226 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2019 | 385,829 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2020 | 390,812 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2021 | 395,346 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2022 | 402,733 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2023 | 411,106 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2024 | 417,072 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2025 | 422,924 | world_bank_wdi |
GDP (current US$)
Source: World Bank WDI. Historical observations shown by reference period.
View GDP (current US$) data table
| Period | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| 2016 | $2,239,604,950 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2017 | $2,266,028,250 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2018 | $2,285,915,050 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2019 | $2,381,187,850 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2020 | $2,047,284,600 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2021 | $2,428,606,250 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2022 | $2,846,604,350 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2023 | $3,052,362,650 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2024 | $3,203,631,800 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2025 | $3,326,500,000 | world_bank_wdi |
International migrant stock (immigrants)
Source: World Bank WDI. Historical observations shown by reference period.
View International migrant stock (immigrants) data table
| Period | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 62,043 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2024 | 68,706 | world_bank_wdi |
International emigrant stock
Source: World Bank WDI. Historical observations shown by reference period.
View International emigrant stock data table
| Period | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| 1990 | 3,528 | un_migrant_stock_2024 |
| 1995 | 3,627 | un_migrant_stock_2024 |
| 2000 | 3,849 | un_migrant_stock_2024 |
| 2005 | 4,380 | un_migrant_stock_2024 |
| 2010 | 5,247 | un_migrant_stock_2024 |
| 2015 | 5,970 | un_migrant_stock_2024 |
| 2020 | 6,694 | un_migrant_stock_2024 |
| 2024 | 7,383 | un_migrant_stock_2024 |
Net migration
Source: World Bank WDI. Historical observations shown by reference period.
View Net migration data table
| Period | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| 2016 | 3,313 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2017 | 1,705 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2018 | 187 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2019 | -606 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2020 | 64 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2021 | -173 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2022 | 5,936 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2023 | 595 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2024 | 490 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2025 | 360 | world_bank_wdi |
Sources & Methodology
Current statistical observations include their reference period and provenance. Reference fields from approved source datasets are attributed below. Missing information is left unknown rather than inferred.
| Indicator | Value | Period | Source | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 422,924 | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| UN Population Division population estimate | 428,645 | 2026 | UN Population Division Data Portal | Estimated |
| Wikidata population (fallback) | 411,106 | 2023 | Wikidata | Reported |
| International migrant stock (immigrants) | 68,706 | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| International migrant stock | 16.5% | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| International emigrant stock | 7,383 | 2024 | UN DESA International Migrant Stock 2024 | Estimated |
| Net migration | 360 | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Refugees from this country | 108 | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Asylum seekers from this country | 1,382 | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Same-sex sexual activity | Yes Legal since 2016 | current | Wikipedia — LGBTQ rights by country or territory | Reported |
| Recognition of same-sex relationships | No | current | Wikipedia — LGBTQ rights by country or territory | Reported |
| Same-sex marriage | No | current | Wikipedia — LGBTQ rights by country or territory | Reported |
| Same-sex adoption | No | current | Wikipedia — LGBTQ rights by country or territory | Reported |
| Open military service | Yes | current | Wikipedia — LGBTQ rights by country or territory | Reported |
| Sexual-orientation anti-discrimination law | Yes Bans all anti-gay discrimination | current | Wikipedia — LGBTQ rights by country or territory | Reported |
| Gender identity / expression law | No | current | Wikipedia — LGBTQ rights by country or territory | Reported |
| GDP (current US$) | $3,326,500,000 | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| GDP per capita (current US$) | $7,865 | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| GDP growth | 2.7% | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Inflation, consumer prices | 1.1% | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Unemployment | 8.9% | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Income level | Upper middle income | current | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Life expectancy at birth | 73.7 years | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Fertility rate | 2.0 | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Urban population | 41.6% | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Individuals using the Internet | 80.0% | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Exports of goods and services | 55.2% | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Imports of goods and services | 53.7% | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Trade | 109.0% | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Adult literacy rate | 87.9% | 2022 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Secondary school enrolment, gross | 86.5% | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Government education expenditure | 4.6% | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Access to electricity | 99.6% | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Renewable energy consumption | 30.8% | 2022 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Current health expenditure | 4.1% | 2023 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Infant mortality rate | 10.8 per 1,000 | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Forest area | 54.5% | 2023 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Mobile cellular subscriptions | 67.2 per 100 | 2022 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Fixed broadband subscriptions | 9.8 per 100 | 2022 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Secure Internet servers | 464,560 per million | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Latitude | 17.2534° | current | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Longitude | -88.7713° | current | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Latitude (Wikidata) | 17.0667° | current | Wikidata | Reported |
| Longitude (Wikidata) | -88.7000° | current | Wikidata | Reported |
| Time zone | UTC−06:00, America/Belize | current | Wikidata | Reported |
| Form of government | constitutional monarchy, parliamentary monarchy | current | Wikidata | Reported |
Data attribution
Credits below are generated from sources actually used by this country profile. Source-specific terms take precedence.
- CIA World Factbook, final 2025 country profile (structured via factbook.json). Accessed September 20, 2026. U.S. Government public-domain data; retained as a reference source where a newer approved field is not available. Source · Terms/licence
- United Nations, Department of Economic and Social Affairs, Population Division, International Migrant Stock 2024; data access/processing via Our World in Data. Accessed September 20, 2026. Underlying UN dataset used under CC BY 3.0 IGO. Source · Terms/licence
- United Nations, Department of Economic and Social Affairs, Population Division, World Population Prospects (WPP indicator 49) Accessed September 19, 2026. Used under CC BY 3.0 IGO; current-year WPP population values are presented as estimates/projections where applicable. Source · Terms/licence
- Varieties of Democracy (V-Dem), Country-Year Dataset v16 (variables: availability) Accessed September 20, 2026. Used under CC BY-SA 4.0; V-Dem measures are expert-coded/modelled and no V-Dem endorsement is implied. Source · Terms/licence
- Wikidata structured data (CC0). Accessed September 20, 2026. Attribution is provided by Knelstrom for provenance although CC0 does not require it. Source · Terms/licence
- Wikipedia, “LGBTQ rights by country or territory” (source revision/data fields: Wikipedia revision 1374406645 — Gender identity / expression law, Wikipedia revision 1374406645 — Open military service, Wikipedia revision 1374406645 — Recognition of same-sex relationships, Wikipedia revision 1374406645 — Same-sex adoption, Wikipedia revision 1374406645 — Same-sex marriage, Wikipedia revision 1374406645 — Same-sex sexual activity, Wikipedia revision 1374406645 — Sexual-orientation anti-discrimination law) Accessed September 20, 2026. Used under CC BY-SA 4.0. Knelstrom changes formatting and presents the imported material as a community-edited legal-status summary, not legal advice or a Knelstrom rights score. Source · Terms/licence
- World Bank, World Development Indicators (series: AG.LND.FRST.ZS, country_metadata, EG.ELC.ACCS.ZS, EG.FEC.RNEW.ZS, FP.CPI.TOTL.ZG, IT.CEL.SETS.P2, IT.NET.BBND.P2, IT.NET.SECR.P6, IT.NET.USER.ZS, NE.EXP.GNFS.ZS, NE.IMP.GNFS.ZS, NE.TRD.GNFS.ZS, NY.GDP.MKTP.CD, NY.GDP.MKTP.KD.ZG, NY.GDP.PCAP.CD, SE.ADT.LITR.ZS, SE.SEC.ENRR, SE.XPD.TOTL.GD.ZS, SH.XPD.CHEX.GD.ZS, SL.UEM.TOTL.ZS, SM.POP.ASYS.EO, SM.POP.NETM, SM.POP.RHCR.EO, SM.POP.TOTL, SM.POP.TOTL.ZS, SP.DYN.IMRT.IN, SP.DYN.LE00.IN, SP.DYN.TFRT.IN, SP.POP.TOTL, SP.URB.TOTL.IN.ZS) Accessed September 20, 2026. Data used under CC BY 4.0; Knelstrom presentation/formatting may differ from the source. Source · Terms/licence
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Last automated statistical refresh: 2026-09-20 02:05:12