WILLEMSTAD - In February, the occupancy rate of accommodations in the region rose to 89 percent, a slight increase of one percent compared to the same period last year. Despite this positive development, accommodation providers still observe high airplane ticket prices and a trend of last-minute bookings, which complicates planning for the coming months. 

The car rental sector also shows a positive trend with an occupancy rate of ninety percent, an improvement compared to last year. This sector is currently benefiting from high demand, partly due to guests from cruise ships visiting the island. 

Dive schools are experiencing less prosperity. With an occupancy rate of only fifty percent, there is a significant decrease: thirty percent compared to the year 2023. 

One of the challenges in the tourism sector is the presence of undocumented workers; individuals operating without the necessary permits and not paying taxes. This creates unfair competition and is a concern for legitimate businesses. 

CASHA, in collaboration with the government and the Foundation Tax Accountants Bureau (SBAB), is working to address this issue and strive for a level playing field where fair competition prevails. The goal is to have all players in the tourism sector operate under the same conditions, which will benefit the quality and reliability of the tourist offer, according to CASHA.