Aruba’s Minister of Economic Affairs Strengthens Ties with Curaçao
The Minister of Economic Affairs of Aruba, Geoffrey Wever, recently concluded a successful diplomatic visit to Curaçao, reinforcing the commitment of both islands to economic collaboration. Central to the discussions was the highly anticipated Fast Ferry project, a key initiative set to enhance connectivity and stimulate trade between Aruba and Curaçao. The potential for a Fast Ferry service connecting the islands has been a topic of interest for several years. This vision took a significant step forward in May 2023, when Minister Wever and Curaçao’s Minister of Economic Development, Ruisandro Cijntje, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). The agreement aimed to foster closer economic ties, with the Fast Ferry project identified as a cornerstone of this collaboration.
Over the past year, progress has been steady, with both governments actively pursuing initiatives aligned with the goals outlined in the MoU. Among these initiatives is the establishment of a Ferry Connection Commission in June 2023 by the Aruban Council of Ministers. This commission was tasked with evaluating the technical and logistical requirements for the ferry service. The subsequent FOICE report concluded that a passenger-only ferry would offer the most feasible solution, simplifying the regulatory landscape and facilitating faster implementation. As interest in the project continues to grow, various commercial entities have expressed their intention to participate in the development of the ferry service. The initial phase of the project will focus on establishing a direct connection between Aruba and Curaçao, with plans to eventually extend the service to include Bonaire.
During his recent visit, Minister Wever and Minister Cijntje reaffirmed their commitment to advancing the Fast Ferry project. The governments of Aruba and Curaçao have agreed to begin joint implementation efforts, marking a significant milestone in the project’s development. Additionally, the Fast Ferry initiative has been incorporated into the broader Country Package (‘Landspakket’) agreement, which seeks to promote regional trade within the Dutch Caribbean. The Netherlands has pledged technical support for the project, underscoring its strategic importance. This initiative will be the first major project executed under the Country Package framework, symbolizing the strong collaboration between Aruba and Curaçao.
The Aruba Investment Agency (ARINA) views the Fast Ferry project as a transformative opportunity for investors, offering substantial economic benefits for both islands. Enhanced connectivity is expected to boost tourism, increase trade, and create new avenues for business expansion. With this project, Aruba is poised to strengthen its position as a key player in the regional economy, and the ARINA is committed to supporting this vision.
For more information on investment opportunities related to the Fast Ferry project, please contact us.
< Back
