WILLEMSTAD – The Curaçao government has taken another step toward developing aquaculture on the island, with the Council of Ministers reviewing progress on the Caribbean Sustainable Aquaculture (CSA) project and the establishment of policy principles for the sector.
The development was included among the government decisions discussed during the Council of Ministers meeting on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, and published on November 6.
According to the official announcement, the Council of Ministers took note of the progress made under the CSA project, which falls under the responsibility of the Ministry of Economic Development.
The government also reviewed the establishment of policy principles intended to guide the development of aquaculture in Curaçao.
Aquaculture involves the cultivation of aquatic organisms, including fish and other seafood species, under controlled conditions. It can provide an alternative source of seafood production alongside traditional fishing activities.
For Curaçao, developing the sector could create opportunities for local food production, economic diversification, and new business activities.
Establishing a Framework for Aquaculture Development
The inclusion of policy principles in the government's discussions indicates that attention is being given not only to the progress of the CSA project but also to the framework within which aquaculture activities could develop.
Such a framework could address matters including environmental protection, the use of marine and coastal areas, production standards, and the conditions under which businesses may operate.
However, the government's announcement did not provide details about the specific policy principles or indicate whether they have been formally approved.
It also did not identify potential aquaculture locations, participating companies, investment amounts, or a timetable for implementation.
Opportunities for Economic Diversification
The development of aquaculture could provide Curaçao with opportunities to expand its domestic food production and reduce dependence on imported seafood.
It could also create possibilities for entrepreneurs interested in fish farming, seafood processing, and related commercial activities.
At the same time, sustainable aquaculture requires careful planning to ensure that production methods do not negatively affect marine ecosystems or existing coastal activities.
Environmental safeguards and appropriate regulations would therefore be important considerations in any future expansion of the sector.
The Council of Ministers' latest discussion places the CSA project within the government's broader economic development agenda.
For now, the official decision confirms that ministers have reviewed the project's progress and the establishment of policy principles. Further information will be needed to determine when the proposed aquaculture activities could move into implementation.