WILLEMSTAD – Minister of Finance, Health, Environment and Nature, Javier Silvania, met on Friday, August 15, with the newly elected board of the Curaçao Business Association (VBC) for an introductory meeting. 

The discussions focused on several key socio-economic issues, including the introduction of a Value Added Tax (VAT) system, the planned implementation of the “Entree Fee,” the moratorium on work permits, the future of the old-age pension system (AOV), and ways to reduce the overall cost of doing business on the island. 

Both the minister and the VBC board expressed their shared commitment to working together constructively on reforms and solutions aimed at strengthening the economy, improving the business climate, and ensuring broader prosperity for the people of Curaçao. 

As an outcome of the meeting, it was agreed that the minister and the VBC will hold quarterly meetings to monitor progress and align on the issues discussed. 

Minister Silvania emphasized the importance of private sector involvement in the policy process. “The cooperation between government and the business community is crucial to achieving sustainable growth and job creation. Only by working together can we ensure stability and progress,” he stated. 

The new VBC board expressed its appreciation for the minister’s openness and reaffirmed its commitment to actively contribute, in its role as the voice of the business sector, to policymaking and implementation in the interest of Curaçao.