Belize Tourism Industry Association Marks 40th Anniversary
PRESS RELEASE
April 25th, 2025 – Belize City, Belize
On April 26, the Belize Tourism Industry Association (BTIA) will proudly celebrate 40 years of dedicated service and leadership in Belize’s tourism sector. Since its founding in 1985, BTIA has been a cornerstone of the industry, advocating for stakeholders, promoting sustainable development, and supporting the growth of Belize’s tourism landscape.
With close to 300 members nationwide, BTIA has championed key initiatives that have shaped the sector, including the launch of signature events like BETEX (Belize Tourism Expo), the publication of Destination Belize magazine—the country’s premier tourism publication—and the coordination of festivals that showcase Belize’s rich culture and natural beauty. These efforts have significantly contributed to positioning Belize as a world-class destination. BTIA has also been instrumental in providing training and development opportunities, advocating for tourism-friendly policies, and promoting responsible tourism practices that benefit local communities.
Reflecting on this milestone, BTIA’s President Efren Perez shared:
“This 40-year journey reflects the passion, resilience, and collaboration that define BTIA. Our achievements have been rooted in our mission to uplift our industry and showcase the very best of Belize. We are proud of our history, but even more excited about what lies ahead. Together with our members and partners, we remain committed to building a vibrant, sustainable tourism sector.”
Linette Canto, Executive Director of BTIA, also reflected on the association’s enduring impact:
“Our greatest strength lies in the partnerships and relationships we’ve cultivated over the years—with our members, communities, and industry partners. As we look to the future, BTIA is focused on innovation, collaboration, and championing initiatives that will ensure Belize’s tourism industry continues to thrive for generations to come.”
As part of the 40th Anniversary celebration, BTIA is pleased to offer a 20% discount on membership fees for new and renewing members between April 26th and May 31st, 2025. Interested stakeholders can contact their local BTIA Chapter, the BTIA Secretariat at 227-1144, or email [email protected] for more information on this promotional offer.
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