Belize's Strategic Move for Enhanced Cross-Border Trade

Feb 2 / Keyla Magaña
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The UNCTAD Empowerment Programme encompasses e-coaching courses, featuring a module on Effective Communication that provides both theoretical and practical content. This module includes valuable tips and advice on delivering impactful speeches and presentations, thereby enhancing the communication skills of members of the National Trade Facilitation Committees (NTFC).

In Autumn 2023, the second edition of the course was delivered to selected English-speaking countries participating in UNCTAD's 'Accelerate Trade Facilitation' project, an initiative supported by the United Kingdom. To showcase the knowledge acquired during the course, participants are required to create a video presentation on trade facilitation topics.

In her engaging presentation, Keyla Magaña, Project Officer at the Economic Development Council's Public-Private Dialogue Unit in Belize, reveals that starting from July 22, 2023, the Benque border of Belize will remain open on Saturdays from 8 am to 4 pm to facilitate cargo clearance and enhance cross-border trade with Guatemala. This decision stems from discussions with the National Trade Facilitation Committee (NTFC), which, alongside the government, is committed to enhancing economic cooperation, consolidating good relations with neighboring countries, and creating a prosperous business environment in her country through trade facilitation measures.

To learn more about this initiative – and discover why the Belizean chicken crossed the border on a Saturday – click on the video below:

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Keyla Magaña

Accomplished Economic Development Practitioner with a proven track record of collaborating with International Agencies. Proficient in International Relations, adept at Proposal Writing, and experienced in various facets of Economic Development, Volunteering, and History. Possessing a Bachelor of Arts (BA) with a focus on International Relations and Affairs from Universidad Latina de Costa Rica, and recognized as a skilled Project Management practitioner (MPM). Demonstrated commitment to community and social services.

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