Belize Agriculture Price Information System (BAPIS)
Origins and Evolution
The European Union, recognizing the need for a robust agricultural market information system, initiated the collection of market prices in January 2010. This initiative fostered collaboration among key stakeholders, including retail sellers, farmers, and policymakers within the Department of Agriculture. In September 2012, the Ministry assumed responsibility for the retail pricing system, giving birth to the Belize Agriculture Price Information System (BAPIS).
BAPIS goes beyond mere data collection; it plays a pivotal role in formulating and implementing effective pricing policies at a macro-level. This strategic approach ensures the overall success of the agricultural sector.
Farmers are at the heart of BAPIS. By providing them with accurate, adequate, and timely information on various aspects of traded crops, the system empowers farmers to enhance their marketing performance. From precise production planning to strategic harvesting dates, BAPIS acts as a guiding light for efficient farming operations.
Not only does BAPIS benefit farmers, but it also assists traders and buyers. By offering insights into sourcing supplies at reasonable costs, BAPIS facilitates mutually beneficial transactions that yield optimal returns.
Consumers benefit from BAPIS through increased competition among retailers and heightened awareness of price conditions. This information equips consumers to make informed choices in the market.
BAPIS provides a comprehensive set of market prices, covering farm gate, wholesale, and retail points, as well as export and import markets. This holistic approach ensures that all stakeholders have access to the information they need.
Trading Dynamics: A Data-Driven Approach
Market Prices and Volumes: Trading volumes are a cornerstone of market information systems. BAPIS provides weekly information on prices and volumes, enabling a continuous assessment of market strategies. This cumulative data, compiled monthly and annually, offers valuable insights into product performance over time.
Operational Mechanism
The Policy Public/Private Sector Interface Unit (PPPIU) and Agriculture Statistics Unit actively collect weekly retail prices from all six districts of Belize, encompassing seven markets. These prices are diligently gathered by Department of Agriculture Extension Officers. The data is then compiled by districts, with average prices representing the weekly trends.
The PPPIU and Agriculture Statistics Unit maintain official reports dating back from 2010 to the present. These reports are compiled from data provided by BELTRAIDE, forming a rich repository of historical agricultural information. By navigating the complexities of the agricultural landscape, BAPIS emerges as a cornerstone for informed decision-making, fostering collaboration, and driving the success of farmers, traders, and consumers alike.
Current National Average Retail Market Prices ($BZD)
Click on Tab below to download PDF version of BAPIS Report:
BAPIS Issue # 10-2024-National
BAPIS Issue # 11-2024-National
BAPIS Issue # 12-2024-National
Kindly Contact the Agriculture Statistics Unit for more information on historical data
Mr. Alfonso Bautista, Statistician
alfonso.bautista@agriculture.gov.bz
Phone #: 822-2241
National Agriculture and Trade Show Grounds Headquarters
