Economic Growth

30-10-2026

Curaçao’s economy continues to grow. The Central Bank of Curaçao and Sint Maarten (CBCS) expects the economy to expand by 2.8% in 2026. This is a slight increase from the previous forecast of 2.7%. Strong tourism performance and continued private investment are the main factors behind the upward revision. However, several factors could still affect the economy’s future development.

Tourism and Investment Drive Economic Growth

Tourism remains a key driver of Curaçao’s economic growth. Both stayover and cruise tourism contribute to economic activity on the island. Visitor spending supports not only hotels and restaurants but also retailers, transportation companies, and other businesses that depend directly or indirectly on tourism.

Private investment also plays an important role. Projects in the tourism sector and residential construction are helping sustain economic activity. These investments create jobs and generate opportunities for businesses involved in construction, property development, and the maintenance of buildings and infrastructure.

The CBCS also expects net exports to contribute more favorably to economic growth than previously anticipated. Exports of goods and services are projected to increase more strongly than imports, providing an additional boost to the economy.

Growth Comes With Challenges

Although the economic outlook is positive, not everyone automatically benefits equally from economic growth. Overall economic performance does not necessarily reflect changes in household purchasing power or the opportunities available to local businesses.

The CBCS expects inflation in Curaçao to reach 2.5% in 2026, followed by 2.4% in 2027. Higher international oil prices and transportation costs can affect the prices of fuel, electricity, and imported goods. This can increase expenses for both households and businesses.

International developments also remain a source of uncertainty. Trade tensions and geopolitical instability can affect tourism demand, investment, and the cost of imported goods. Because Curaçao is closely connected to international markets, developments abroad can have a direct impact on the local economy.

Outlook for the Coming Years

The CBCS forecasts economic growth of 2.3% for 2027. The economy is therefore expected to continue expanding, although at a more moderate pace than in 2026. Following the strong growth of recent years, economic activity is projected to settle into a more moderate pattern, with tourism and investment remaining key pillars of the economy.

The figures suggest that Curaçao’s economy is performing relatively well, but continued growth cannot be taken for granted. Monitoring developments across different sectors and ensuring that investment strengthens the local economy will remain important.

The challenge for Curaçao is not simply to achieve economic growth, but also to make the most of the opportunities it creates. A diversified economic base, a supportive environment for entrepreneurship, and careful attention to the effects of international developments will remain essential.

Source: Central Bank of Curaçao and Sint Maarten (CBCS), Economic Bulletin, September 2026.