WILLEMSTAD – The transformation of Curaçao's former refinery facilities into new centers of economic activity was among the main topics discussed during a recent visit by Dutch Minister of Economic Affairs and Climate Policy Heleen Herbert to 2BAYS.
The visit provided an opportunity for representatives of 2BAYS and CDM Holding to present their ongoing development projects, investment opportunities, and the challenges involved in revitalizing industrial and port-related infrastructure on the island.
Minister Heleen Herbert during her visit to 2BAYS
During the meeting, 2BAYS Chief Development Officer Sander Rijsdijk briefed the Dutch minister on the company's efforts to transform the former refinery sites and further develop its terminal facilities at Bullenbaai and Emmastad.
According to 2BAYS, these developments could attract new businesses and investors, contribute to the diversification of Curaçao's economy, and create sustainable employment opportunities.
Transforming Former Refinery Infrastructure
The redevelopment of the former refinery sites represents a significant undertaking for Curaçao, where the industrial facilities have historically played an important role in the island's economy.
During the visit, Rijsdijk explained the commercial opportunities associated with the transformation, while also outlining the challenges that must be addressed before the sites can reach their full economic potential.
The company's plans include further development of its terminal operations at Bullenbaai and Emmastad, two strategically important locations within Curaçao's industrial and maritime infrastructure.
2BAYS emphasized that the transformation will require substantial investments, long-term planning, and continued efforts to attract businesses capable of establishing sustainable operations.
The company views the redevelopment as an opportunity to move beyond the traditional refinery model and create conditions for new economic activities.
However, 2BAYS acknowledged that realizing these ambitions will take time and that the anticipated economic benefits will depend on continued investment and development.
CDM Holding Presents Opportunities at Buskabaai
The Dutch minister also received information about development opportunities in the Buskabaai area.
Agustin Diaz, representing CDM Holding, presented an overview of the organization's ongoing developments and the commercial potential of the area.
The presentation highlighted the role that Curaçao's maritime and port-related organizations could play in attracting investors and expanding economic activity.
By presenting developments at both the former refinery sites and Buskabaai, the participating organizations emphasized the broader opportunities available within Curaçao's industrial and maritime sectors.
The discussions also demonstrated the importance of coordination between organizations responsible for different parts of the island's port-related infrastructure.
Economic Diversification and Employment
A central theme of the visit was the potential contribution of industrial redevelopment to Curaçao's long-term economic development.
According to 2BAYS, transforming existing infrastructure into commercially viable facilities could help attract businesses that generate economic activity beyond the island's traditional sectors.
The company believes that successful redevelopment could contribute to a more diversified economy while creating employment opportunities for residents.
However, the organization stressed that these outcomes are not immediate and will require significant financial resources and sustained commitment.
The redevelopment process also presents challenges related to the scale of the existing facilities, the investment needed to modernize infrastructure, and the effort required to attract suitable commercial partners.
2BAYS did not announce specific new investment agreements or employment figures in its statement about the ministerial visit.
Cooperation Seen as Essential
The visit underscored the importance of cooperation between Curaçao's port-related organizations and potential international partners.
By sharing information about their respective development plans, 2BAYS and CDM Holding sought to demonstrate how coordinated efforts could strengthen the island's position as a destination for industrial and maritime investment.
The presence of the Dutch minister also provided an opportunity to highlight the economic possibilities associated with repurposing Curaçao's existing industrial assets.
For 2BAYS, the long-term objective remains to transform the former refinery locations and terminal facilities into productive economic assets capable of attracting new businesses and supporting sustainable employment.
The company described the process as one requiring time, significant investment, and continued effort, but emphasized that the potential contribution to Curaçao's economic future could be substantial.