Agriculture as a New Economic Sector

Agriculture as a New Economic Sector

25 April 2026

After economists recently highlighted agriculture and food security as key themes, a notable development followed just days later: a visit by the Prime Minister and the Ministers of VVRP and Finance to the Director of the World Bank, and former Prime Minister, Rhuggenaath.

As an aside, he previously faced strong opposition from the current governing party and was afterward unable to find meaningful employment on the island. It is therefore striking—and hopeful—that bridges are now being rebuilt.

During this visit, the expertise of the World Bank was called upon to explore how Curaçao’s food security can be strengthened. According to economists, we currently produce only about 10% of our own food.

That is concerning.

Especially when we consider that earlier initiatives, such as projects led by a former minister—among them Kunukito—were effectively dismantled. At the same time, there are in fact several active businesses in the agricultural sector. Not without reason do they refer to themselves as The Hidden Green Movement.

What is striking is that this sector is hardly mentioned in most economic diversification strategies. That is a missed opportunity.

In my view, modern agriculture in Curaçao holds significant potential. Not as a nostalgic idea, but as an innovative sector: technology-driven, sustainable, and focused on local production.

I therefore argue that agriculture, particularly modern, smart agriculture, should be prioritized within economic policy.

Miguel Goede