UN/LOCODE: BZBZE📍 Belize
Port of Belize City (UN/LOCODE BZBZE)
❖ Coordinates: 17.5046°N, -88.1962°E
❖ Time Zone: America/Belize
❖ UN/LOCODE: BZBZE
## About the Port
The Port of Belize City, identified by the UN/LOCODE BZBZE, is a significant maritime facility located in Belize City, the largest city in Belize. Situated at 17.5045661 Latitude and -88.1962133 Longitude, it serves as the country's primary port, handling the majority of Belize's import and export cargo. The port operates within the America/Belize timezone, facilitating efficient international trade and commerce. As a critical component of Belize's economy, the Port of Belize City plays a vital role in the country's development and growth.
### Port Operations
The port's operations are managed by the Belize Port Authority, which oversees the daily activities of the facility, including cargo handling, vessel traffic management, and maintenance of the port's infrastructure. The authority works closely with other government agencies, shipping lines, and logistics providers to ensure the smooth and efficient flow of goods through the port.
## History
The history of the Port of Belize City dates back to the colonial era, when Belize was a British colony known as British Honduras. During this period, the port served as a major hub for the export of timber, particularly mahogany, which was highly prized by European shipbuilders and furniture makers. Over time, the port's role evolved to accommodate the changing needs of the economy, with the introduction of new cargo handling facilities and the expansion of the port's infrastructure. Today, the Port of Belize City is a modern, well-equipped facility that handles a wide range of cargo, including containers, bulk commodities, and project cargo.
### Development Initiatives
In recent years, the government of Belize has implemented various initiatives aimed at developing the port's infrastructure and enhancing its operational efficiency. These initiatives include the construction of new cargo handling facilities, the upgrade of existing infrastructure, and the introduction of new technologies to improve the port's management and operational systems. For more information on these initiatives, please visit the Belize Port Authority website↗.
## Infrastructure & Facilities
The Port of Belize City boasts a range of modern infrastructure and facilities, designed to support the efficient handling of cargo and the provision of high-quality services to shipping lines and their customers. The port's facilities include:
* A container terminal with a capacity to handle over 40,000 TEUs per annum
* A bulk cargo terminal for the handling of commodities such as sugar, citrus, and grains
* A project cargo terminal for the handling of oversized and heavy-lift cargo
* A cruise ship terminal, which accommodates visiting cruise ships and their passengers
* A range of support facilities, including warehouses, workshops, and fueling stations
### Navigation and Safety
The port's navigation channel is approximately 10 meters deep, allowing vessels with a draft of up to 9 meters to access the facility. The channel is well-marked and lit, with a range of navigational aids, including buoys, beacons, and a lighthouse. The port also has a range of safety equipment and emergency response plans in place, including fire-fighting equipment, rescue boats, and a team of trained emergency responders.
## Economic Importance
The Port of Belize City is of critical economic importance to Belize, generating significant revenue and employment opportunities for the local community. The port handles over 80% of the country's import and export cargo, including goods such as fuel, foodstuffs, and manufactured goods. The port also supports a range of industries, including agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism, which are all major contributors to the country's GDP.
### Trade Agreements
Belize is a member of several regional trade agreements, including the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and the Central American Integration System (SICA). These agreements provide preferential access to markets in the region, facilitating the growth of trade and commerce between Belize and its neighbors. For more information on these agreements, please visit the CARICOM website↗.
## Trade Routes & Major Cargo
The Port of Belize City is strategically located to serve as a hub for trade between the Caribbean, Central America, and the rest of the world. The port is connected to major shipping routes, including the Panama Canal, which provides access to the Pacific Ocean and the markets of Asia. The port's major cargo includes:
* Containers, which account for the majority of the port's cargo volume
* Bulk commodities, such as sugar, citrus, and grains
* Project cargo, including oversized and heavy-lift equipment
* Fuel, which is imported to meet the country's energy needs
* Manufactured goods, including electronics, machinery, and vehicles
### Shipping Lines and Services
The Port of Belize City is served by a range of shipping lines, including major carriers such as Maersk, COSCO, and Evergreen. These lines offer a range of services, including container shipping, bulk cargo shipping, and project cargo shipping. The port also has a range of logistics providers and freight forwarders, which offer a range of services, including customs clearance, warehousing, and transportation.
Port Intelligence
UN/LOCODE
BZBZE
Country
Belize
Province / Region
Belize
Latitude
17.504566
Longitude
-88.196213
Timezone
America/Belize
Nautical Map (OpenSeaMap)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the UN/LOCODE for Port of Belize City?
The official UN/LOCODE for Port of Belize City is BZBZE.
Where is Port of Belize City located?
The Port of Belize City is located in Belize, Belize. Its coordinates are 17.5046°N, -88.1962°E.
What time zone is Port of Belize City in?
Port of Belize City operates in the America/Belize time zone.
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About the World Port Index
This data is sourced programmatically. The UN/LOCODE is the official geographic coding scheme used by the United Nations for trade and transport locations.
📍 Nearby Ports
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