WILLEMSTAD – Curaçao's economy is expected to continue growing over the next several years despite increasing geopolitical uncertainty and rising energy costs, according to the latest Economic Bulletin published by the Central Bank of Curaçao and Sint Maarten (CBCS).
The central bank forecasts that real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth will moderate to 2.7 percent in 2026 after the exceptionally strong expansion recorded in 2025. Growth is expected to ease further to 2.3 percent in 2027 before stabilizing around 2.0 percent by 2030.
According to the report, domestic demand will remain the main engine of growth, supported by private investment in tourism and real estate projects. Tourism has also remained resilient despite concerns that conflict in the Middle East could discourage international travel.
In fact, the CBCS says Curaçao may be benefiting from a shift in travel patterns, with some tourists choosing Caribbean destinations instead of traveling to the Middle East or parts of Asia.
CBCS President Richard Doornbosch cautioned, however, that the island's resilience should not be taken for granted.
"The monetary union enters 2026 from a position of resilience, but that resilience cannot be taken for granted. Continued growth is expected, but the external environment requires vigilance, sound buffers, and clear policy priorities," he said.
The report concludes that while Curaçao cannot control external events, it can strengthen its economy by maintaining prudent fiscal policies, improving institutions, encouraging investment, and building stronger buffers against future global shocks.