WILLEMSTAD – Minister of Economic Development Roderick Middelhof has reached an agreement with the Association of Importers and Distributors (BVCA) to temporarily reintroduce the “Makutu Básiko” price control system.
The Makutu Básiko is a government measure that sets maximum prices on a basket of essential goods in order to keep them affordable for the population. The scheme will be reinstated for a period of 18 months.
According to Minister Middelhof, the decision follows consultations with the private sector and reflects a joint effort to address rising costs of living on the island.
At the same time, the Ministry of Economic Development is working on a long-term structural solution aimed at balancing the interests of both consumers and businesses.
The proposal has already received a positive advisory opinion and is currently in its final phase before officially taking effect.
Middelhof emphasized that protecting purchasing power remains a top priority for the government, particularly in light of ongoing economic pressures affecting households.