WASHINGTON, WILLEMSTAD – Curaçao will receive technical assistance from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to implement critical reforms in public finance, healthcare, and the national pension system. The support comes as part of preparations for the IMF’s next Article IV mission to the island, scheduled for June 2025. The agreement was reached during a working visit by Minister of Finance Javier Silvania to Washington D.C.
An Article IV mission is a mandatory annual review the IMF conducts with all its member countries, including Curaçao. Named after Article IV of the IMF’s founding treaty, the review assesses the economic and financial health of member states and provides policy advice through a comprehensive report of findings and recommendations.
For Curaçao, this mission is particularly significant as it offers a snapshot of the nation’s economic trajectory, boosts investor confidence, and informs the government’s policy decisions.
Focus on Debt, Tax Reform, and Social Systems
The additional IMF support will focus on strengthening debt management, improving the efficiency of public investment, and modernizing the tax system, including the planned introduction of a value-added tax (VAT). Assistance will also extend to reforms in the healthcare and pension sectors.
According to Curaçao’s Ministry of Finance, the goal is to enhance the island’s financial sustainability and improve its socioeconomic resilience.
“This collaboration is an important step in ensuring long-term economic stability,” said Minister Silvania. “It reflects our commitment to responsible governance and transparent fiscal management.”
International Cooperation on Tax Treaties
In addition to preparing for the IMF mission, Curaçao signed a new tax treaty with Cyprus aimed at preventing double taxation. Discussions with Luxembourg were also advanced, with both sides agreeing to begin negotiations on a modern tax agreement focused on financial services, including banking and investment funds.
These international agreements are intended to strengthen Curaçao’s position as a credible partner in the global financial landscape and to support the island’s economic development goals.
