WILLEMSTAD – In his farewell address to the Curaçao FinTech Association, outgoing Member of Parliament Gwendell Mercelina Jr. (PNP) reinforced his vision for economic diversification, positioning financial technology (FinTech) as a cornerstone of Curaçao’s future prosperity.
Mercelina, who will step down following the 2025 Parliamentary Elections, reflected on his legislative efforts to integrate FinTech into Curaçao’s economic strategy. As the only MP to consistently participate in the Kolektivo Festival and an active member of Parliamentarians for Global Action and the Dutch Association of Councillors, he has long advocated for innovation-friendly policies.
“FinTech isn’t just a trend—it’s a transformative force that can unlock Curaçao’s economic potential,” Mercelina asserted. “My mission in Parliament was to bridge the gap between policymakers and the FinTech sector, ensuring our laws foster growth while protecting consumers.”
A Blueprint for FinTech Leadership
During his presentation, “Charting Curaçao’s Fintech Future,” Mercelina outlined how the island could leverage its strategic location, bilingual workforce, and robust financial sector to become a regional FinTech hub. Key priorities included:
Modernizing regulations to attract startups and investors
Expanding digital infrastructure and financial literacy programs
Strengthening partnerships between government, academia, and industry
“We must create an ecosystem where innovation thrives,” he emphasized. “That means investing in talent, streamlining bureaucracy, and positioning Curaçao as the Caribbean’s go-to destination for FinTech development.”
A Lasting Legacy
Though departing Parliament, Mercelina vowed to remain a vocal advocate for economic innovation. “My commitment to Curaçao’s progress doesn’t end here. I’ll continue pushing for collaboration across sectors to build a dynamic, diversified economy—one where FinTech generates jobs, investment, and long-term resilience.”
His remarks were met with applause from industry leaders, who credited Mercelina for laying the groundwork to transform Curaçao into a 21st-century financial center.
