Caribbean Sugar Refinery (CSR) has officially reaffirmed that the production timeline for its new sugar refinery in Belize remains on track, with “first sugar” targeted for the third quarter of 2026 and full commissioning anticipated in the fourth quarter of 2026.
To support a smooth shift for regional customers and private-sector partners, waivers for refined white sugar will remain active until April 1, 2027. Developed through collaboration with future buyers and the CARICOM Private Sector Organization (CPSO), this transition period allows commercial customers sufficient time to adjust their procurement schedules while CSR completes facility commissioning, product quality certifications, and regional logistics channels.
Throughout the transition phase, CSR will process raw sugar feedstock while building out its Caribbean distribution network. Additionally, a new sugarcane crop cycle starting by March 1, 2027, is expected to further support supply availability across the region.
CSR emphasized that establishing the refinery goes beyond offering a new regional sugar source, serving as a driver to strengthen intra-regional trade and advance the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME). Local supply capacity for refined white sugar aims to give regional manufacturers higher supply stability and an improved competitive standing against extra-regional producers.
The company highlighted that expanding the regional manufacturing base contributes broader economic benefits to CSME economies, including deeper economic integration, job creation, investment, and resilient supply chains. CSR reiterated its commitment to conducting the transition in a manner that avoids abrupt disruptions to customer operations.
