WILLEMSTAD – The Central Bank of Curaçao and Sint Maarten has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with fintech company Bitt to explore the development of a central bank-backed digital currency (CBDC) for the two Dutch Caribbean territories. 

The agreement, signed earlier this month, signals the beginning of a joint effort to assess the feasibility of issuing a digital version of the Curaçao and Sint Maarten guilder. 

According to official statements, the initiative will also focus on testing know-your-customer (KYC) and anti-money laundering (AML) technologies, which are considered critical components for the secure and compliant implementation of digital currencies. 

The move comes as part of a growing regional trend toward digital finance. Bitt previously signed a similar MOU with the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank, which oversees digital currency projects in eight countries, including Antigua and Barbuda, Saint Lucia, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines. 

By exploring a digital currency, Curaçao and Sint Maarten aim to modernize their financial systems, improve transaction efficiency, and enhance regulatory oversight — especially in areas like compliance and security. 

Further developments are expected as the Central Bank and Bitt conduct joint assessments and pilot programs over the coming months.