The Belize Fisheries Department, under the Ministry of Blue Economy and Marine Conservation, convened the first meeting of the National Shark Working Group (NSWG) on Friday, January 23, 2026, at the Grand Resort and Residences in Belize City. Chaired by the Belize Fisheries Department, the meeting served as a national platform to review scientific research, assess shark fishery trends, and discuss the future direction of shark conservation and management in Belizean waters. Participants also reviewed fishery data from the 2024–2025 and 2025–2026 shark fishing seasons, with discussions focused on landing figures and market trends. Fishing guides in San Pedro expressed mixed views regarding shark fishing. The launch of the National Shark Working Group is expected to strengthen national coordination on shark conservation and fisheries management, with potential long-term benefits for shark populations and marine ecosystems across Belize.