WASHINGTON, WILLEMSTAD – The United States has announced new import tariffs that will affect Curaçao, Aruba, and Sint Maarten, raising concerns over trade and economic relations between the islands and the U.S. market. The Curaçaoan government is now working on strategies to mitigate the impact. 

Threat to Duty-Free Trade Benefits 

Curaçao currently benefits from the Caribbean Basin Trade Partnership Act (CBTPA), a trade agreement established in 2000 and valid until 2030. This program allows more than 5,800 products, including clothing, footwear, and petroleum products, to enter the United States duty-free, provided they meet the rules of origin requirements. The CBTPA has played a crucial role in strengthening Curaçao’s export sector. 

However, the new U.S. tariffs threaten to erode these advantages. The U.S. government is introducing a reciprocal tariff policy, meaning import duties will be imposed equal to the tariffs that other countries apply to American goods. According to the U.S. presidential announcement, Curaçao, Aruba, and Sint Maarten will now face a 10% import tariff on goods entering the United States. 

Uncertainty for Local Businesses 

The exact impact on the Curaçaoan economy remains uncertain, and the government has stated that further clarification will be provided in the coming days. Local businesses, particularly those reliant on exports to the U.S., may be significantly affected. 

To mitigate the impact, the government is considering several measures, including: 
Tax incentives for local companies 
Lowering import duties on essential goods 
Investments in local agriculture to reduce reliance on imports 
Attracting more tourists from alternative markets 

Although Curaçao is not the primary target of these U.S. tariff increases, the new policy could still negatively affect the island’s trade position in the region.