WILLEMSTAD – Curaçao's economy is expected to continue growing in 2026, but at a slower pace as geopolitical tensions, global trade uncertainty and regional instability create increasing risks for the island's economic outlook. That assessment is included in the Central Bank of Curaçao and Sint Maarten's (CBCS) 2025 Annual Report.
According to the central bank, Curaçao's economy expanded by 3.9 percent in 2025, following 5.0 percent growth in 2024. Growth was driven largely by the tourism sector, while inflation eased to 2.0 percent as international oil prices declined.
For 2026, the CBCS forecasts economic growth of 2.9 percent, supported by private investment, consumer spending, government investment and continued tourism activity. Inflation is also expected to moderate further, helping strengthen household purchasing power.
Despite the positive outlook, the central bank cautions that international developments remain the greatest threat. The report specifically references the U.S. intervention involving Venezuela earlier this year, warning that renewed regional instability could negatively affect tourism and increase migration pressures on Curaçao. Ongoing conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine, tighter global financial conditions, climate risks and rising healthcare costs are also identified as significant downside risks.
The report concludes that while the monetary union remains financially resilient, policymakers must remain vigilant as external events continue to have a direct impact on the economies of Curaçao and Sint Maarten.