WILLEMSTAD - Venezuelan crew members from ships delivering fruits and vegetables to Curaçao are being accused of conducting illegal trade. Authorities allege that they sell their goods to local shops and supermarkets without the required permits, using unregistered and uninsured vehicles.
The Economic Affairs Inspectorate (MEO), customs officials, and the Curaçao Police Force (KPC) intervened yesterday at the Grote Werf. Two vehicles loaded with fruits and vegetables intended for the local market were intercepted. The Venezuelan drivers lacked sales permits, and the vehicles were not registered or insured, leading to their confiscation by the police.
Unfair Competition
This practice, reportedly more common since the reopening of the border with Venezuela, violates economic regulations. Authorities stress that it not only breaches the law but also creates unfair competition for local distributors who adhere to the rules.
At the time of the border reopening, officials had warned that such trading practices would not be allowed. Despite these warnings, some Venezuelan traders continue to attempt to sell their products on the local market.