WILLEMSTAD - The Curaçao Manufacturers Association (CMA) has expressed significant concerns regarding the potential risks associated with the island's recent accession as an associate member of Caricom. While this move could present new opportunities for local businesses, the CMA highlights the possibility of increased competition from other Caricom nations, which may threaten the local industrial sector.
The association points out that larger market sizes, improved transportation and port services, and lower production costs in other Caricom countries could create an uneven playing field for Curaçaoan manufacturers. In response to these challenges, the CMA is advocating for enhanced protections for local industries to ensure their sustainability and competitiveness.
A critical issue raised by the CMA is the lack of protective regulations and quality measures on the island, which leaves the market susceptible to an influx of imported goods from CARICOM member states. Furthermore, the association emphasizes the urgent need for a robust anti-dumping system to prevent foreign entities from undermining local competition.
Given these concerns, the CMA is calling on the Curaçao government to tread carefully in its engagement with Caricom, ensuring that measures are put in place to safeguard the interests of local manufacturers and maintain a fair competitive landscape.