WILLEMSTAD – Curaçao's telecom regulations are set to change, allowing customers to keep their phone numbers when switching to a different provider. The Regulatory Authority of Curaçao (RAC) has confirmed the update, which will be included in the revised Landsbesluit Opgedragen Diensten, creating a legal framework for number portability. 

Currently, telecom providers are not required to offer number portability, but this will soon change. However, the transition will not take effect immediately, as operators need time to upgrade their infrastructure. Additionally, an external party will be appointed to develop the technical platform that will support the process. 

According to RAC director Curt Belfor, number portability is standard practice worldwide and helps promote fair competition in the telecom sector. This change is particularly urgent in Curaçao’s mobile market, which is highly saturated, giving providers little incentive to compete. As a result, mobile number portability will be introduced first. 

The updated legislation will also grant RAC greater authority over internet services. The regulatory body will be able to monitor internet speeds and service quality, ensuring that providers deliver the speeds they promise. If a provider consistently fails to meet agreed speeds, RAC will have the power to take action following a customer complaint.