WILLEMSTAD – A new tourist tax will soon be introduced in Curaçao, with revenues earmarked for environmental protection, tourism development, and an increase in the AOV pensions. Governor Lucille George-Wout announced the measure yesterday during the opening of the new parliamentary year.

Finance Minister Javier Silvania also presented the 2026 budget to Parliament. The government aims to reduce the national debt to 55 percent of GDP, which it says will create space to invest in both the economy and society.

According to the cabinet, future economic growth should come from diversifying into new sectors, boosting local production, and strengthening small- and medium-sized enterprises. Agriculture, fisheries, and livestock farming are expected to play a larger role in supplying the tourism industry, while exports and sustainable energy projects will also receive fresh support.