The Council of Ministers has approved the Action Plan for Accelerated Growth in Agriculture and Livestock, allocating 1.7 million guilders for 2025. The initiative aims to strengthen local food production, reduce reliance on imports, and promote a sustainable and economically viable agricultural sector.
Currently, Curaçao imports food worth NAfl. 560 million annually, highlighting the need for increased local production. The action plan focuses on strategic improvements in production, distribution, and market access to create a more sustainable and efficient food supply. Innovative farming techniques, such as drip irrigation and hydroponics, will be introduced to maximize crop yields while reducing water waste.
Key Steps and Initial Results in 2025
To better utilize production capacity and align with market demand, an extensive assessment will be conducted to map active farmers and available farmland. This will ensure the efficient allocation of resources, including land, machinery, and infrastructure.
One of the first major initiatives is a pilot project at the AVB site, where 10 hectares of farmland will be developed using modern irrigation and cultivation techniques. The site will also function as a training center, offering vocational programs to train unemployed individuals and former inmates as farmers.
Additionally, a centralized storage and distribution system will be established to enhance market stability and reduce food waste. This system will help farmers store their products under optimal conditions and deliver them at the right time, ensuring fair pricing for both producers and consumers.
A notable feature of the plan is the introduction of "Makutu Saludabel", a package of locally produced healthy foods to be sold in supermarkets and restaurants. This initiative aims to promote food security and public health.
International Cooperation and Capacity Building
To support the sector’s long-term sustainability, 20 young farmers will be trained annually through a 10-month apprenticeship program. Local farmers will also have opportunities to engage in international collaborations and learn advanced agricultural techniques. These efforts will contribute to higher productivity and the professionalization of the sector.
A multi-year policy plan (2026-2030) is being developed, focusing on increased production, sustainability, and capacity building. Key priorities include expanding farmland, encouraging agricultural entrepreneurship, and developing export opportunities.
Collaboration and Expected Impact
The success of this action plan depends on close collaboration between farmers, agricultural federations, supermarkets, distributors, and educational institutions. This joint effort aims to increase production capacity while also ensuring a stable market for local products.
By implementing this plan, Curaçao expects to reduce food imports by NAfl. 20 million within one year and create at least 70 new jobs in agriculture, food processing, and distribution.
A public awareness campaign, "Di mi tera pa mi boka" ("From my land to my mouth"), will soon be launched to promote the benefits of locally produced food. The campaign will target consumers, schools, and the hospitality sector to encourage greater support for the growing agricultural industry.
This initiative is led by the Ministry of Health, Environment, and Nature (GMN) in partnership with the Ministry of Economic Development (MEO) and the Ministry of Traffic, Transport, and Spatial Planning (VVRP).
The government is calling on all stakeholders to join forces in building a stronger, more sustainable, and economically viable agricultural system in Curaçao.
Source - https://www.curacaochronicle.com
