Belišće dates from 1884 when a saw-mill and some houses were built on the right bank of the Drava River.

Nowadays, Belišće is a small town and a centre of local self-government, with eight suburbs and population of 11,786. There are 2,688 employees (without individual farmers). Over 70 per cent of total employees work in wood processing area, i. e. in production of paper and packaging in Belišće d.d. wich a successor of S.H.Gutmann Company, a creator of the plants and the town of Belišće.

In the last decade number of small- and medium-size enterprises has been increased significantly as well as the number of employees (production of foodstuffs, beverages, rubber and plastic products, catering trade, shops etc.). A new small industry zone (incubator) and a new bridge built over the Drava River will support further development and increase of the employment level.

The town offers favourable conditions for high-quality life of its citizens. There are many new built houses and buildings, developed infrastructure and health-services institutions, cultural and sport facilities. Belišće has a modern primary school with a gym with nearby sport grounds (basketball, handball, tennis, bowling, valleyball, chess). Belišće has very successful sport history. The most remarkable results were achieved by canoeists among who Matija Ljubek accomplished the best results who became the Olympic and world champion. Belišće also has the world champions in bowling and kayaking. Cultural centre and youth centre are available to cultural and other associations. Theatre club has long history of drama and music activities dating from the very beginning of the town of Belišće, where a famous composer of operettas and musicals Sigmund Romberg was born and raised. The town museum presents 120 years of rich history of the town and the company. Belišće also has an art gallery and a library. Nearby Drava and Karašica Rivers, being rich in various fish, and numerous parks and tree-lined streets offer pleasant surrounding to the citizens of Belišće as well as to all its guests and visitors.