Across Central America’s emerging tech landscape, Belize has transformed into an unlikely powerhouse for business process outsourcing, with the sector now generating $450 million in digital service exports annually and employing up to 20,000 people.
Belize’s BPO sector generates $450 million annually while employing 20,000 people across digital services and outsourcing operations.
The industry contributes $150 million in annual wages and has become the country’s biggest private employer, supporting a commercial property rental and construction boom while cushioning inflation’s impact on the broader economy.
The workforce composition reveals significant social impact. Over 18,000 employees work in the sector, with 85% being women.
Young professionals and women dominate the 20,000 Belizeans employed in digital services. Currently, 17 BPO companies operate under the Designated Processing Area program, providing 9,000 direct jobs with steady income, benefits, and advancement opportunities.
Several factors drive this remarkable expansion. Belize offers a bilingual workforce, competitive labor costs, and alignment with U.S. time zones.
Government initiatives since 2013 have strengthened infrastructure and workforce development. The sector has diversified beyond traditional call centers into IT outsourcing, knowledge process outsourcing, technical support, and software development.
Industry projections indicate agents will surpass 20,000 by 2025, contributing to the 8.2% GDP growth recorded in 2024.
Entry-level wages start at $4.50 per hour, while supervisors earn up to $8.00 per hour. These rates provide reliable income for young professionals developing their careers amid economic pressures.
Geographic expansion continues across the country. Belize City and Belmopan serve as primary hubs, with operations extending to Cayo district, Orange Walk, Corozal, Dangriga, and Punta Gorda.
San Ignacio has emerged as another key center. Belize City remains the main hub for delivery operations due to its stronger infrastructure and deeper talent pool. Transparent BPO leads as the largest player, while Ready Call Center, Protel BPO, and Peak Outsourcing represent other major companies.
Peak Outsourcing alone plans to add 300 new hires by 2025.
However, challenges threaten continued growth. Sketchy operators work on the margins of legality.
A pending U.S. bill could impact the sector, though industry leaders remain confident. Concerns about labor laws, Social Security compliance, immigration work permits, cybersecurity, and online crime persist. Some operations recruit agents through social media advertisements from anonymous accounts lacking basic business information.
Maintaining global competitiveness requires addressing these vulnerabilities while protecting the sector’s achievements. Government-backed workforce development programs and robust partner selection can help sustain the industry’s growth.
