Gasoline in Belize: Where It Comes From and How It Gets Refined
- Craig Densham
- 7 days ago
- 3 min read
Updated: 5 days ago
If you’ve ever filled up your tank in Belize and wondered why fuel prices fluctuate—or why gasoline is more expensive than in some neighboring countries—you’re not alone. The story of gasoline in Belize is tied closely to the nation’s small but fascinating oil industry, its import infrastructure, and its regional energy partnerships.
Does Belize Have Oil?
Yes, Belize does have oil—though not on a massive scale. The first major discovery came in 2005 at the Spanish Lookout oil field in the Cayo District. This discovery, led by Belize Natural Energy (BNE), put Belize on the map as a minor petroleum producer. The oil found there is a light crude, relatively easy to extract and refine.
At its peak in the late 2000s, Belize was producing around 5,000 barrels of oil per day, a respectable amount for such a small country. However, production has since declined to a few hundred barrels per day due to natural depletion of wells and limited exploration investment.
Where Is Belize’s Oil Refined?
Here’s the key part: Belize does not have a domestic oil refinery. All crude oil extracted within Belize is exported, primarily to the United States or Central American markets, for refining. The refined petroleum products—gasoline, diesel, kerosene, and LPG—are then imported back into the country.
This means the gasoline you pump at a Belizean station has likely traveled thousands of miles before reaching your vehicle. The most common import partners include the United States (especially Gulf Coast refineries), Mexico, and occasionally Central American suppliers through trade arrangements.
How Gasoline Reaches Belize
Imported fuel typically arrives at Port of Belize (in Belize City) or Big Creek Port in the south. From there, fuel is stored in bulk facilities and distributed by major local companies such as:
Puma Energy Belize (formerly Esso)
Rubis Energy Belize
Uno (formerly Shell)
These companies manage both the import logistics and the national retail distribution networks.
Why Is Gasoline Expensive in Belize?
Gasoline prices in Belize are among the highest in Central America. Several factors contribute:
Import Dependence – Since all refined products are imported, Belize bears global transportation and refining costs.
Government Taxes and Duties – Excise duties and environmental taxes make up a significant portion of the pump price.
Currency Exchange Rates – Fuel prices are tied to the U.S. dollar, so any movement in exchange rates impacts local pricing.
Small Market Size – With limited demand, economies of scale in refining and transport are minimal.
Sustainability and Energy Future
Belize’s government has expressed interest in diversifying its energy sources. Renewable energy—especially hydroelectric, solar, and biomass—already accounts for a large share of Belize’s electricity grid. However, transport energy still depends heavily on imported fossil fuels.
There have been discussions about restarting exploration and building small-scale refining capabilities, but no major infrastructure project has materialized yet.
Summary
Aspect | Status in Belize |
Oil Production | Yes (small scale, mainly Spanish Lookout & Never Delay fields) |
Refineries | None (crude exported, refined fuel imported) |
Fuel Import Partners | USA, Mexico, Central America |
Major Fuel Distributors | Puma, Rubis, Uno |
Challenges | High import costs, small domestic market, currency fluctuation |
Future Direction | Renewables growth, limited petroleum exploration |
Final Thoughts
Belize’s oil story is one of opportunity and limitation—a country blessed with natural resources but constrained by scale and infrastructure. While its crude reserves have helped the economy, its dependence on imported refined products remains a vulnerability. As global energy trends shift toward renewables, Belize stands at a crossroads: balancing its petroleum past with a greener, more sustainable future.
About the Author
Craig Densham is the owner of Ocean Breeze Beach Resort, a boutique seaside resort in Placencia, Belize. With years of local experience and a passion for hospitality, Craig loves helping guests discover the best of Belize — from hidden beaches to authentic local cuisine. Follow Ocean Breeze Beach Resort on Facebook and Instagram for travel inspiration.
