WILLEMSTAD – Curaçao’s growing technology sector could develop into a fourth major pillar of the island’s economy, according to representatives of Stichting SIMIA during a meeting with Governor Mauritsz de Kort.
The meeting took place on May 13 at the Governor’s Palace, where the governor received a delegation from Stichting SIMIA, a cooperative platform of IT companies focused on strengthening and expanding Curaçao’s local technology industry.
The delegation included Andrew Solomon of Ictual and vice-chairman of SIMIA, Fokko Scholma of 2Share and SIMIA treasurer, Joris van Summeren of Sentoo and Raynni Jourdain of Blyce.
During the discussions, the parties focused on developments within Curaçao’s IT sector and the role digital innovation could play in diversifying the island’s economy beyond its traditional sectors.
According to SIMIA, Curaçao-based companies are already developing software and digital solutions used in dozens of countries worldwide. Examples discussed during the meeting included online tax portals, payment systems, court administration software, telecom applications and digital platforms for car rental businesses.
The organization outlined its ambition to further expand the technology sector and position it as an important new economic driver for Curaçao.
Special attention was also given to education, digital skills and the importance of exposing young people to technology and artificial intelligence (AI) at an early age.
SIMIA emphasized that closer cooperation between government, educational institutions and the private sector will be necessary to stimulate innovation and long-term economic growth.
The organization also highlighted opportunities to encourage Curaçao professionals living abroad to return to the island and contribute their international experience and expertise to the local economy.
Governor Mauritsz de Kort expressed interest in the sector’s development and underscored the importance of innovation, education and knowledge development for Curaçao’s future.
The discussions also touched on both the opportunities and challenges associated with the continued digitalization of society.