State of the Nation (Economy): Prime Minister John Briceño says Belize’s economy grew 5.1% and employment hit 98%, citing $324M in planned public capital spending and a Standard & Poor’s B-/B stable credit rating. Cost of Living Relief: Government moves to remove GST from residential BEL electricity bills and expand the social electricity rate, while Briceño signals the minimum wage could rise from $5 to $6 per hour “in the near future.” Energy Push: Belize plans up to 120MW of solar plus 40MW of battery storage by 2030, with new solar and storage targeted by June 2027, alongside temporary diesel generation to manage reliability. Port & Trade Infrastructure: Work on an $800M Port of Belize redevelopment is expected to start next year, aiming to cut shipping costs and boost cargo and cruise capacity. Tourism Pressure from Sargassum: Briceño says sargassum is already hurting tourist arrivals in key coastal areas and points to a national task force and cleanup equipment. Education & Social Support: About 20,000 students get hot meals daily, and the government reports expanded school assistance and internet access. Business & Markets: Expo Belize Marketplace’s 30th anniversary drew nearly 10,000 visitors, while vendors at Michael Finnegan Market complain wholesale price hikes are squeezing profits. Finance & Governance: Officials defend a $20M energy reallocation within the US$125M MCC compact and explain why tax exemptions apply to compact spending. Crime & Courts: A City Council cleaner accused of stealing a $200 tent frame landed in prison over old fines, while a domestic assault case was dismissed after the wife asked for a second chance.