978-1-4222-3285-9

(Opposite) Tourists relax on one of Belize’s scenic beaches. Foreign visitors

provide an important source of revenue for businesses in Belize.

(Right) A variety of vegetables for sale in a Belizean street market. Farming has long been a mainstay of the country’s economy. 3

Careful Land Use Strengthens the Economy

FOR CENTURIES, THE economy of Belize was based on forestry, mainly the export of logwood, mahogany, and chicle—a tree whose sap can be used in making gum and ice cream. Today, agriculture remains an impor- tant part of the country's economy. Ranking second in importance is tourism, an industry that has been growing significantly over the past two decades. In 2014, more than one million foreign tourists visited resorts and cities in Belize. Farmable Land: A Major Asset Belize’s main economic resource is its farmable land. About 38 percent of Belize is suitable for agriculture, but less than 10 percent is under

25