Andre Perez to Highlight Belize’s Experience Linking Ocean Accounts to Finance

Andre Perez, Minister of Blue Economy and Marine Conservation of Belize, will join the high-level side event “Delivering on the 2030 Sustainable Ocean Economy: Pledge to Develop Ocean Accounts by 2030” to present the Belizean perspective on the theme “Belize Ocean Accounts and Blue Finance”.

As the driving force behind Belize’s first Blue Economy Bill, Minister Perez has played a pivotal role in establishing the legislative foundation for sustainable, ocean-based economic growth. This landmark legislation is the first of its kind in the country and represents a major step toward formalising the sustainable use and management of marine resources.

By integrating ocean accounts into national finance and planning strategies, Belize aims to ensure that marine ecosystems continue to support livelihoods, create job opportunities, and protect coastal communities. Minister Perez will reflect on how the country is leveraging data-driven ocean governance to attract investment and align marine policy with long-term economic and environmental sustainability.

His intervention will provide insights into how small coastal states can link ocean accounting with national development goals, while ensuring that nature remains at the heart of economic decision-making.