WILLEMSTAD – The parliamentary faction of MAN-PIN is urging the government to adopt new revenue-generating measures, including further development of Curaçao's online gaming industry, to strengthen the country's public finances and safeguard the long-term sustainability of the AOV pension fund.
In a policy statement, the opposition party argued that Curaçao has several opportunities to increase government revenue while financing future pension indexation and investments in public services.
Among its proposals, MAN-PIN calls for the government to more aggressively develop the island's online gambling sector. According to the party, the industry has the potential to generate millions of guilders in additional revenue if properly managed.
The party criticized the implementation of the National Ordinance on Games of Chance (LOK), arguing that Curaçao is not yet fully benefiting from the opportunities offered by the rapidly growing online gaming industry.
MAN-PIN believes revenue generated through the sector should be invested in healthcare, education, public safety and the financing of AOV pension increases. It also argues that further expansion of the industry could create well-paying jobs for local residents.
In addition to gaming, the party reiterated its support for several tax reforms it believes could strengthen government finances. These include the introduction of a tourist entrance fee, a tax on international money transfers and a sugar tax.
According to MAN-PIN, these measures would provide sustainable sources of revenue that could help finance future pension increases without placing undue pressure on the government's budget.
The party concluded that poverty is often the result of political decisions rather than an unavoidable reality.
"Curaçao is experiencing economic growth. The resources exist; what is lacking is the political will to ensure pensioners receive the benefits to which they are legally entitled," MAN-PIN said.
The government has not yet responded publicly to the party's latest proposals.