WILLEMSTAD – Entrepreneurs participating in Curaçao Export Week 2026 warned that local exporters continue to face serious operational obstacles that limit the island’s ability to compete internationally.
During the conference, business representatives described how high transport costs, weak logistics chains, limited air and maritime connectivity, and certification barriers continue to complicate export activities for Curaçao-based companies.
Several participants stated that many businesses struggle not only with the cost of exporting, but also with navigating complex certification requirements needed to access international markets.
Exporters additionally pointed to difficulties obtaining financing, especially for small and medium-sized enterprises seeking to scale production or expand abroad.
The concerns reflect broader structural challenges facing small island economies throughout the Caribbean, where dependence on imports, limited economies of scale, and shipping vulnerabilities often increase production and export costs.
According to recent CBCS reports, Curaçao’s persistent trade deficit and heavy reliance on imported goods continue to create long-term economic vulnerabilities. The central bank has repeatedly argued that strengthening local production and expanding value-added export sectors are essential for future resilience.
One of the concrete proposals emerging from Export Week was the creation of recurring “Export Clinics,” practical workshops and consultation sessions designed to bring together entrepreneurs, specialists, and government institutions to address day-to-day export bottlenecks.
Participants said the initiative could help businesses navigate issues such as certification, logistics, financing, and market access more effectively.
The event also highlighted the growing importance of digital transformation and regional cooperation as Curaçao searches for new economic opportunities outside its traditional dependence on tourism.
The CBCS has warned that global economic instability, rising freight costs, geopolitical tensions, and disruptions to international trade routes could continue to affect small island economies disproportionately in the coming years.
Against that backdrop, exporters argued that Curaçao must move faster in building a stronger and more competitive export sector if it wants to reduce economic fragility and create sustainable long-term growth.