WILLEMSTAD – The Ministry of Economic Development (MEO) has officially launched a national dialogue on reforming Curaçao’s foreign direct investment (FDI) policy, with a strong focus on the Blue Economy and Energy Transition. The initiative kicked off on Monday, April 7, with the policy workshop titled “Promoting Investment for Sustainable Development.”
Held at the Renaissance Wind Creek Curaçao Resort, the workshop brought together representatives from government institutions, business associations, and the economic zones to begin shaping a more resilient and sustainable investment climate aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
In her opening remarks, Vanessa Toré, Director of the Foreign Economic Cooperation Sector, emphasized the long-term importance of the initiative:
“This workshop is not a one-off event, but the beginning of a national process. Together, we are building a future-proof investment policy that positions Curaçao as a sustainable and attractive investment destination.”
Global Expertise, Local Commitment
The keynote speaker was Paul Wessendorp, former head of Investment Promotion at UNCTAD and a global expert in FDI. Wessendorp outlined international trends in investment strategies that support sustainable development, particularly for small island nations like Curaçao.
During his visit, Wessendorp also held bilateral meetings with key stakeholders including the Chamber of Commerce (KvK), CINEX, CURINDE, the Curaçao Tourist Board (CTB), MEO, and several private sector organizations. He also met with the Minister of Economic Development to discuss the role of FDI in sustainable development and the importance of effective and well-governed Investment Promotion Agencies (IPAs).
The workshop also introduced participants to Curaçao’s National Export Strategy (NES), highlighting investment opportunities within the energy transition and blue economy—two sectors identified as having strong potential for sustainable growth and international cooperation.
Next Steps Toward a New Investment Roadmap
This workshop marks the start of an in-depth consultation process that will continue through October 2025. Over the coming months, the Ministry will engage stakeholders in a series of focused discussions, all aimed at crafting a modernized investment roadmap to support Curaçao’s long-term economic transformation.
