The Statistical Institute of Belize today held its final press conference for 2023. They presented the most recent unemployment rate, the rate of GDP growth in the third quarter, and the trade deficit.
One thing that jumped out at us is the increase in the volume of Ramen imported to Belize in the first 10 months of the year. It even caught the statisticians off guard:
One large importer of Ramen told us they have not seen that level of increase. But he says the increased demand for Ramen is likely due to inflation since it is the cheapest bellyful you can buy.
And swiping to the employment rate, the second labour force survey of the year was done in September. March's survey famously produced that magic number of 2.8% unemployment.
In September, due to seasonal employment, it's usually higher. Here's the latest numbers:
Last year's October unemployment rate was 5%.
And, finally, the GDP growth in the third quarter was moderate - as it usually is - since the major agricultural exports are mostly out of season. Here's a recap:
