WILLEMSTAD – Curaçao has realized significant cost savings of approximately 41 million guilders on government housing expenses between 2020 and 2024. This figure, presented in an evaluation by the Dutch Central Government Real Estate Agency (Rijksvastgoedbedrijf, RVB), shows that the island not only met but exceeded the target set under Measure B10 of the Landspakket Curaçao. That measure aimed for a 20 percent reduction in government housing costs within five years, from 2020 to 2025. Adjusted for inflation, the savings represent a reduction of 21.5 percent, ensuring that the original goal has already been achieved.
The evaluation highlights several developments that made this possible. In 2023, the government adopted a formal housing policy that gave it more control over costs, the quality of its buildings, and the integration of sustainability into property management. Rental contracts were renegotiated, which directly reduced expenses, while relocations of government offices delivered immediate financial benefits. At the same time, an interdepartmental taskforce on government housing was created to strengthen coordination between ministries. The RVB also noted that expert advice was issued to reduce energy costs and promote more efficient use of government-owned properties.
Despite these positive results, the evaluation makes clear that structural reforms will be needed to ensure the savings are sustainable. The report recommends the establishment of a dedicated real estate department within the Ministry of Traffic, Transportation and Spatial Planning (VVRP) to professionalize property management. It also calls for the development of a sustainable financing model for maintenance and management, along with systematic energy-saving measures to permanently reduce operational costs. According to the RVB, business cases should be prepared to guide decisions about whether properties should be owned or rented. The government is further urged to fully implement the new housing policy and to keep rental and ownership records accurate and up to date so that effective oversight is possible.
The evaluation concludes that Curaçao has taken important steps toward a more efficient use of government housing, producing both financial relief and better management practices. However, it also stresses that the progress made so far must now be anchored in lasting reforms. Without structural follow-up, there is a risk that the achievements could prove temporary. With professionalized property management, consistent enforcement of policy, and the introduction of green energy strategies, the island could not only maintain the savings already achieved but also create a stronger foundation for the sustainable management of public assets.
