WILLEMSTAD – Minister of Economic Development Roderick Middelhof says the 2BAYS area has significant untapped potential to become an important driver of economic diversification, industrial development and high-quality employment for Curaçao.
During a technical working visit to the 2BAYS area, Middelhof was introduced to existing and planned economic activities around the port area. According to the minister, the visit confirmed that Curaçao has valuable infrastructure, technical expertise and specialized companies that can contribute to the development of a stronger maritime and industrial ecosystem.
Middelhof emphasized that the challenge is not the absence of opportunities, but rather the need to connect existing infrastructure, technical knowledge, residual flows and private initiatives into a coordinated development strategy.
“Curaçao has valuable industrial infrastructure, a strategic location, technical knowledge and companies with specialized expertise that are interested in investing. The challenge is to connect these elements instead of allowing them to operate separately,” Middelhof stated.
According to the minister, this approach could create a broader maritime and industrial ecosystem where existing and new activities strengthen each other and generate greater economic value.
One of the areas being explored is the possibility of creating economic value from residual materials and waste streams. After further technical research, purification and processing, certain materials containing graphite could potentially serve as raw materials or as a basis for industrial activities related to the battery supply chain. Other materials could potentially be used in pharmaceutical applications.
The existing laboratory facilities at 2BAYS could also play a role in future activities, including material research, quality control, chemical analysis and support for industrial and pharmaceutical operations. Further technical and commercial research will determine the feasibility of these opportunities.
The developments at 2BAYS align with the government’s 2025–2029 program, which aims to revitalize Curaçao’s industrial sector. The strategy focuses not only on attracting new companies and investments but also on making better use of existing assets, infrastructure, knowledge, professional skills and entrepreneurial activity.
Middelhof said the goal is to expand Curaçao’s industrial base and strengthen the island’s long-term ability to create economic value and generate income.