WILLEMSTAD – The association Dutch Caribbean Economists, better known locally as the “Economists’ Club,” held a well-attended meeting on food security in Curaçao on Monday, March 30, 2026. The event took place at the auditorium of the University of Curaçao and attracted strong interest from across the community.
Due to the high number of registrations, combined with the provision of complimentary catering, organizers were forced to close registration earlier than planned.
The meeting was prompted by recent geopolitical developments, climate change, and the resulting price increases and uncertainties surrounding the availability of essential goods. The association said it considered it necessary to create a platform for knowledge-sharing and dialogue on these issues.
Dennis Arrindell, secretary of the association, opened the event and emphasized the organization’s role as a forum for exchanging ideas and expertise. Board member Xiomar Pedro, who served as moderator, highlighted in his opening remarks that innovative and sometimes unconventional solutions are required to address complex challenges. He also outlined the four pillars of food security: availability, accessibility, safety and nutritional value, and stability.
During the discussions, it was noted that Curaçao currently imports more than 90 percent of its food. To reduce this dependency, speakers stressed the importance of stronger collaboration between stakeholders, including the Ministry of Economic Development, responsible for policy and regulation, and the agricultural and cooperative sectors, which play a key role in local food production.
Food supply was examined from three perspectives: historical developments, lessons learned during the COVID-19 period, and future scenarios. Participants were presented with three possible paths forward: continuation of the current situation, often described as “business as usual,” and a technological transformation aimed at maximizing local production while also developing niche products for export.
Several speakers contributed insights during the event. Dimitri Cloose and Jonathan Jukema discussed historical land use and the evolution of Curaçao’s food culture. Ergün Erkocu presented research findings on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the potential of technological innovation to increase production. Lesley Fer addressed national risk management, including threats such as hurricanes, food insecurity, and geopolitical tensions, stressing the importance of public awareness. He warned against a mindset characterized by underestimation and delay, summarized as the “four O’s”: uninformed, indifferent, in denial, and unbelieving.
Reginaldo Doran and Lutson Lucas emphasized the efficient use of production resources and the importance of cooperation. Shurhensley Quirindoongo demonstrated through his hydroponics company Curhydro that innovative farming methods can enable year-round crop production. Mariëlla Olaria-Maduro provided an overview of available government support, including subsidies and financing opportunities, and announced the creation of a project group focused on concrete actions to strengthen food security.
Using the Mentimeter application, approximately forty questions were posed to attendees. While not a scientific survey, the responses offered a general impression of public sentiment.
Key points raised during the session included the need for broad support for a technological transition in agriculture, expectations for a stronger leadership role by the government in improving food security, and the importance of better framework conditions and access to financing, including incentives, subsidies, investments, and loans. Participants also expressed concern about the current availability and stability of the food supply and noted that Curaçao remains insufficiently prepared for a potential food crisis. The critical role of the cooperative sector was widely acknowledged.
It also emerged that many consumers consciously choose products included in the “Makuto Basiko,” even when local products are priced higher. Average monthly grocery spending was estimated at around XCG 500, with expectations that further price increases may lead consumers to cut back on dining out and entertainment.
The meeting concluded with a networking session, where participants continued discussions while enjoying local refreshments.