Belize

7.2 - Electronic payment

Articles	7.2 View measure text
Indicative date of implementation	22 February 2020
Definitive date of implementation	31 December 2026
Deadline for extension request, if required	2 September 2026
Extension of implementation dates	Request received 6 September 2026 Original definitive date 31 December 2026 New date requested 30 June 2028 Agreed date Reason The Government of Belize, through the Central Bank of Belize, is developing a fully digitized instant payments system to modernize the current environment where payments are accepted primarily through bank deposits. The new system will provide faster payments and expanded options, including QR code payments, alias identifiers, and request-to-pay functions. Government collections will also be integrated into this platform, consistent with the Belize’s planned modernization of its systems. The project officially commenced in April 2026 following the contracting of the implementing firm, with a planned go-live in Q1 2028. Given the scale of development, testing, and integration across government agencies, Belize requests an extension until 30 June 2028 to ensure the electronic payments system is fully operational and aligned with the rollout of the Electronic Single Window for Trade. Committee approval: Pending Link to notification G/TFA/N/BLZ/1/Add.3 Request received 22 August 2019 Original definitive date 22 February 2020 New date requested 31 December 2026 Agreed date 31 December 2026 Reason Committee approval: Approved Link to notification G/TFA/N/BLZ/1/Add.1
Shift	Shift from Cat. B to Cat. C notification.
Assistance required for implementation	The Customs and Excise Department allows electronic payments; it is currently engaged in an effort to include other agencies which require additional assistance and support from donors in implementing. Requires the following additional assistance and support not earlier anticipated: 1. Assistance and financial support for the development of a wide-area network for BAHA. 2. Assistance for the development of a legal framework that is supportive of electronic payments. Tags: Information and communication technologies (ICT), Legislative and regulatory framework
Donor / Agency	Caribbean Development Bank
Progress reported	10 March 2023 — G/TFA/N/BLZ/4 Currently the Belize Customs and Excise Department utilizes an electronic payment system through the AYSCUDA World System purchased from UNCTAD with donor support from CDB. However, the Supplies Control Unit and other Border Agencies do not have in place such system. Belize would appreciate any assistance that would allow the accommodation of electronic payment through the ASYCUDA World system or another system for these agencies.