Update on Credit Card Fees, From the Chamber of Commerce:
Several people have contacted me with proof that the gas stations were adding a surcharge to credit card purchases. After meeting with some of the banks and merchants, it is clear that businesses are not supposed to add any fees if the customer uses a credit card. In these discussions, the situation with fuel is somewhat different in Belize. In this case, the Chamber has not taken a stand at this time, but wishes to inform all our Members of the situation.
We were informed that in Belize, fuel prices are regulated and fixed. Local fuel businesses are not allowed to raise the fuel price, and then offer "cash" discounts if paid by cash like some gas stations do in the States to get around the additional fee if a credit card is used. So here the banks turn a blind eye to the Belize practice of adding the 5% to credit card purchases at fuel stations. The gas suppliers have a strong opinion that they are providing a service to their customer by accepting credit cards, and would not be able to accept them if the 5% was not added.
The Chamber welcomes any comments and opinions.