Full internal self-government under a ministerial system was granted in January 1964. The official name of the territory was changed from British Honduras to Belize in June 1973, and full independence was granted on September 21, 1981. Forestry was the only economic activity of any consequence in Belize until well into the 20th century, when the supply of accessible timber began to dwindle. Sugar then became the principal export, but recently the economy has been augmented by expanded production of citrus, bananas, seafood, and apparel, as well as a booming tourism industry. Economic performance is fragile, and although outstanding growth has been achieved in recent years, the achievements are vulnerable to world commodity price fluctuations and continuation of trade preferences.
Economic growth is constrained by a number of factors, particularly by the lack of infrastructure.
No roads exist to service large tracts of potentially arable land and timber. Some roads, including some sections of major highways, are subject to damage or closure during the rainy season. Expansion of port handling facilities is underway in Belize City, and a new deep water port is being dredged in Big Creek to compliment facilities in Belize City and Commerce Bight. Barges and lighters are used for sugar, bananas, and other shipments. Passports are required of US citizens wishing to enter Belize.