While neighboring countries prepare for the consequences of the measures taken by the U.S. administration, Curaçao remains noticeably silent. There is no specialized task force, no action in Parliament or at Fòrti. Moreover, business organizations such as the VBC, the Bankers’ Association, trade unions, and consumer advocacy groups have yet to voice their concerns. Has Curaçao, as an Associate Member of CARICOM, reached out to the regional body? Have representatives in Parliament been contacted? 

Political parties continue to repeat their promises of lowering prices, yet they remain silent on the rising tariffs imposed by the U.S. and the retaliatory actions from Mexico, Canada, and Europe. These factors make the prospect of reducing prices highly unlikely. 

If politicians are too afraid to say it, then let’s be clear: fasten your seatbelts. Inflation will rise, the housing market will be affected, and tourism from the U.S. and Canada could take a hit. Depending on how long this economic war lasts, Curaçao could face recession, economic decline, increased emigration, and growing inequality. Should we wait for the Netherlands to take action on our behalf? 

As a member of the Global America’s High-Level Working Group on Crucial Issues in U.S.-CARICOM Relations, efforts are underway to publish The State of U.S.-CARICOM Relations: Stepping into the Next Ten Years. More research and analysis are needed—not silence. This is the price we pay for a government in Parliament and Fòrti that lacks the capability to act. And ultimately, this is the price we pay for voting them in. 

Alex David Rosaria (53) is a freelance consultant active in Asia & Pacific. He is a former Member of Parliament, Minister of Economic Affairs, State Secretary of Finance and UN Implementation Officer in Africa and Central America. He’s from Curaçao and has a MBA from the University of Iowa. (USA).