THE HAGUE – The Dutch House of Representatives has given its approval to the tax treaty between Curaçao and the Republic of San Marino, despite reservations about its usefulness. 

The government of Curaçao believes the treaty will help promote trade with the tiny enclave of just 33,000 inhabitants, located within Italy. So far, trade between Curaçao and San Marino has been minimal, with an annual value of around 85,000 guilders, and it is not expected to grow significantly. 

The underlying Kingdom law — required because foreign affairs fall under the Kingdom’s jurisdiction — was adopted Thursday without debate as a routine matter. By waiving an oral discussion, there was no need for special delegates from the Curaçao Parliament to travel to The Hague.