Dutch Government Launches ‘Game-Changing’ Strategy to Boost Caribbean Economies Through Private Sector
Investment The Dutch government is introducing a new approach to development cooperation within the Kingdom that places the private sector at the center of economic growth on the Caribbean islands.
This strategy will first be rolled out using the €24 million previously allocated by the Cabinet to enhance local food production and improve food security across the six Caribbean islands of the Kingdom. State Secretary for Kingdom Relations Zsolt Szabó informed the Dutch House of Representatives today that the new policy aims to yield more tangible results by actively involving private enterprises alongside public funds.
The approach encourages collaboration between the national government and local businesses, combining resources to support sustainable, locally driven entrepreneurship. “I want to see more results than we’ve achieved up until now,” said Szabó. “From now on, we’re doing things differently. By directly engaging private parties, we create more space for entrepreneurs to invest.
This not only boosts the economy but also contributes directly to economic self-sufficiency—something I consider just as crucial as good governance and sound public finances for the islands’ future.” The new framework envisions broader applications beyond the food sector. Szabó emphasized that this model can also be used in other economic areas, as well as in cooperation with civil society organizations.
“This is a real gamechanger for the islands. Together with entrepreneurs, NGOs, and local governments, this approach presents a major opportunity to finally get it right. My ambition is to make this a catalyst for future investments in the Caribbean part of the Kingdom.” The €24 million investment will be used to strengthen food security, stimulate local agricultural production, and reduce dependence on imported goods. The program is part of a broader initiative by the Dutch government to increase resilience and long-term economic independence for Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, Saba, Aruba, Curaçao, and Sint Maarten.http://www.sxmnews.ai