WILLEMSTAD - During the Caribbean Hotel Investment Conference & Operations Summit (CHICOS 2025), held this year at the Marriott Beach Resort in Piscadera, Prime Minister Gilmar Pisas emphasized that hosting CHICOS in Curaçao showcases the island not only as an attractive travel destination but also as a reliable and forward-looking partner in the sustainable development of Caribbean tourism.

In his keynote address, Prime Minister Pisas presented the government’s vision for a new era of sustainable growth, economic diversification, and regional cooperation. He noted that Curaçao is in a decisive phase of modernization and renewed economic strength, following years of reform, recovery, and political stability that have laid the groundwork for a more resilient and future-proof economy.

The Prime Minister highlighted efforts to reduce bureaucracy in business and licensing procedures, introducing what he called a “red-carpet economy” — an investment environment built on reliability, transparency, and efficiency.

Pisas further outlined Curaçao’s ambition to position itself as a multi-sectoral hub for tourism, energy, maritime services, industry, and finance, underscoring the government’s commitment to balanced development — combining economic expansion with environmental protection, cultural preservation, and social cohesion. The country, he said, is investing in sustainable energy projects, green construction standards, and initiatives that link innovation with environmentally responsible entrepreneurship.

The Prime Minister described CHICOS 2025’s presence in Curaçao as a sign of international confidence in the island’s strategic direction. He commended CINEX and the Curaçao Tourist Board (CTB) for their key roles in guiding investors and strengthening Curaçao’s global reputation as a trusted tourism and investment destination.

Looking ahead, Curaçao aims to further develop as a regional hub, leveraging its strategic location between Latin America, North America, and the Caribbean, as well as its direct connection to the European Union through the Kingdom of the Netherlands.

Prime Minister Pisas concluded by stressing the importance of regional collaboration in facing the shared challenges and opportunities of the Caribbean tourism industry:

“Curaçao is ready to play an active role in building a stronger, more sustainable Caribbean — one rooted in shared growth and mutual benefit.”