U.S. Call Center Legislation Could Reshape Employment for 18,000 Belizeans – Here’s What It Means

B: Omar Silvas I Editor/Publisher

National Perspective Belize

www.nationalperspectivebz.com

Belize City: Wednesday 20th August 2025: Belize’s BPO (Business Process Outsourcing) industry has become a vital engine of employment and economic activity, employing roughly 18,000 workers and generating millions in annual salaries. Yet, the proposed U.S. “Keep Call Centers in America Act of 2025” threatens to alter the landscape. While companies like VOYSE International continue to expand confidently, the sector remains exposed to legislative decisions abroad.

Here’s a clear breakdown of what Belizeans can expect in the short, medium, and long term.

The Good: Opportunities and Strengths

1. Established Companies Remain Committed:

VOYSE International, with over 18 years of operation and 300+ employees, continues to invest in modern offices in Belize City and Orange Walk. This demonstrates long-term confidence in Belize as a stable BPO hub.

2. Economic Contribution:

Annual payrolls of up to BZ$10 million support local households, stimulate domestic consumption, and contribute to government revenues through taxes.

3. Potential for Diversification:

The U.S. legislation, though a threat, may spur Belize BPOs to diversify internationally, exploring Canada, Europe, and other English-speaking markets, which could strengthen the sector and reduce overreliance on one client base.

4. Government Engagement:

Belize’s PUP administration is actively consulting with BPO leaders, preparing strategies to mitigate potential disruptions, signaling proactive governance.

The Bad: Risks and Vulnerabilities

1. Dependence on U.S. Contracts:

Over 90% of Belize’s BPO clients originate from the U.S., making the industry highly vulnerable to any legislative restrictions or sanctions.

2. Medium-Term Employment Uncertainty:

Smaller BPOs and start-ups may struggle to sustain operations if new U.S. restrictions reduce contract volumes, potentially affecting thousands of Belizean jobs.

3. Pressure to Adapt:

Companies will face the dual challenge of technological evolution (AI integration) and regulatory compliance, which may strain resources and operational flexibility.

4. Government Narrative vs Reality:

While officials emphasize “protection” for the sector, Belizeans must understand that ultimate control lies with U.S. legislation, not domestic policy. Government reassurances are conditional, not absolute guarantees.

The Ugly: Worst-Case Scenarios

1. Contract Cancellations or Relocations:

If U.S. clients are forced to comply with the Act, some BPO contracts could be canceled or shifted to U.S.-based centers, resulting in job losses and halted expansion projects.

2. Industry Contraction:

A significant portion of smaller BPOs may be unable to survive the regulatory shock, leading to unemployment spikes and economic ripple effects across households dependent on the sector.

3. Economic Overreliance Exposed:

Belize’s broader economy remains overly dependent on foreign-controlled BPOs. A severe disruption could expose systemic vulnerabilities in youth employment and national income.

4. Delayed Diversification:

Inaction or slow response by government or industry players may result in lost opportunities to pivot, leaving Belizean BPOs trailing global competitors.

National Perspective: Strategic Imperatives

Belize’s BPO sector can survive and even thrive if strategic steps are taken now:

• Client Base Diversification: Reduce dependence on U.S. contracts by exploring global markets.
• Upskilling and Technological Integration: Prepare workers for AI-assisted and specialized services.
• Government-Industry Collaboration: Create contingency plans, incentives, and support programs for smaller BPOs.
• Transparent Public Communication: Belizeans deserve clear information about risks and government action, beyond political narratives.

Conclusion:

VOYSE International’s expansion and investor confidence provide short-term reassurance, but the long-term stability of Belize’s BPO sector is not guaranteed. The industry represents both a beacon of economic opportunity and a potential vulnerability. How the government, BPO operators, and Belizeans respond to the U.S. legislation will determine whether the sector thrives, survives, or suffers in the coming years.