WILLEMSTAD – Curaçao companies seeking to expand internationally and explore business opportunities in the United States are being invited to participate in the “From Island Roots to Global Routes” Trade Mission, scheduled to take place in Miami from November 16 through 19, 2026.
As part of preparations for the mission, Tamara Leonard, Chair of the Board of Directors of the Sint Maarten Chamber of Commerce and Industry (COCI), will visit Curaçao on September 7 for a special roadshow introducing the initiative to the local business community.
Interested companies will have an opportunity to learn more about the trade mission and the possibilities available in Miami and the broader U.S. market.
The initiative brings together Caribbean organizations that support entrepreneurs with a common objective: helping local businesses prepare for international markets and expand beyond their home islands. Participants will receive practical assistance with market entry, networking and establishing business contacts.
“On our islands, there are entrepreneurs with strong products, services and ambitions. Entering international markets, however, requires the right knowledge, preparation and contacts,” Leonard said. “From Island Roots to Global Routes is intended to build that bridge and introduce Caribbean companies to opportunities in the U.S. market in a practical way.”
The Curaçao Investment & Export Promotion Agency (CINEX), in cooperation with the Ministry of Economic Development (MEO) and with support from the Curaçao Chamber of Commerce & Industry, is facilitating Curaçao’s participation in the mission.
Miami was selected because of its strategic position as a commercial gateway connecting the Caribbean, Latin America and the United States.
Participating companies will be introduced to the U.S. business environment and will take part in business matchmaking and networking events. They will also receive guidance on entering the U.S. market and have opportunities to establish contacts with relevant organizations and potential business partners.
“For Curaçao companies with international ambitions, Miami represents a logical and accessible gateway to the U.S. market,” CINEX CEO Miles Mercera said. “Our goal is not simply to take companies on a trade mission, but above all to help them establish the right contacts, better understand the market and translate these possibilities into concrete business opportunities.”
CINEX and MEO will assist the Curaçao delegation in preparing for the mission. Eligible companies will also receive information about the possibility of applying for assistance through the Netherlands Enterprise Agency’s Support International Business (SIB) program, subject to eligibility requirements and approval by RVO.
Participation costs US$2,150 for one company representative and US$3,000 for two representatives. Registration closes September 30, 2026.
The “From Island Roots to Global Routes” Trade Mission will take place in Miami from November 16 through 19.