Conference Programme
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In today’s interconnected world, strategic international partnerships are more critical than ever to unlocking sustainable economic growth. This dynamic panel will explore how Curaçao and the wider Dutch Caribbean can leverage cross-border collaboration to expand trade, attract foreign direct investment, and build resilient economies. Curaçao’s Ambassadors and High Commissioners from different countries around the globe will share insights on aligning policy frameworks, strengthening regional integration, and fostering innovation-driven development through global cooperation.
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Location: Royal Palm Garden
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A dynamic and resilient financial services sector is the cornerstone of any thriving investment ecosystem. This pivotal panel will bring together leaders from international and commercial banking, wealth and fund management, and public institutions to explore how Curaçao can further strengthen its financial services landscape to compete globally. Key topics include attracting new equity, enhancing substance and fiscal advantages, boosting e-commerce readiness, and introducing innovative financial products and services. The discussion will also highlight strategies for deepening public–private collaboration and scaling financial infrastructure to support regional expansion.
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A well-functioning capital market is essential for economic growth, investment attraction, and business expansion. At the heart of this system lies the stock exchange—an engine for mobilizing capital, enhancing transparency, and creating investment opportunities. This panel will examine the evolving role of the stock exchange in Curaçao and the broader Caribbean, focusing on its potential to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), attract foreign investment, and drive financial inclusion. Industry leaders, regulators, and capital market experts will discuss opportunities to modernize infrastructure, increase market participation, and develop innovative financial instruments that strengthen the region’s investment ecosystem.
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Access to capital is a critical factor in scaling any business, and the Dutch Caribbean Securities Exchange (DCSX) offers a strategic platform for companies seeking growth through public and private investment. This insightful panel will explore how the DCSX can support startups, scale-ups, and mature enterprises in raising capital, increasing visibility, and building investor confidence—both regionally and internationally. Hear from business leaders, financial advisors, and DCSX representatives as they share real-world experiences, listing advantages, regulatory insights, and tools available to help businesses unlock their next phase of growth.
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Technology is no longer just a support function—it’s a key driver of productivity, competitiveness, and innovation across all sectors. This panel will explore how robust IT services and digital infrastructure are powering economic transformation in Curaçao and across the Caribbean. From ICT infrastructure and cloud solutions to e-commerce platforms, software development, and telecom services, the discussion will explore Curaçao’s current strengths in infrastructure, highlighting areas where the island is already leading, particularly in connectivity and regional positioning. Experts will examine the existing gaps in digital inclusion, addressing who may be left behind and why. The conversation will also delve into strategies for commercializing tech exports, identifying opportunities to scale local innovation to international markets, considering the potential for stronger public-private synergies for much needed collaboration.
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With its strategic geographic position, Curaçao is uniquely placed as a gateway connecting North and South America, the Caribbean Basin, and Europe. This panel will explore how Curaçao can further strengthen its role as a regional trade and distribution hub—leveraging its economic zones, the World Trade Center, and world-class port infrastructure to attract global businesses. Panelists will discuss how digitalization and e-government initiatives can streamline trade facilitation, improve regulatory efficiency, and boost competitiveness. Key topics include enhancing enterprise awareness of trade procedures, strengthening public–private communication, and delivering high-quality trade data to support smart export decisions and policy development. As Curaçao aims to align investment and trade promotion, this session will offer actionable strategies to increase operational efficiency while safeguarding legitimate regulatory objectives, unlocking new opportunities for growth and global integration.
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Location: Paradise Beach
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Tourism remains the cornerstone of Curaçao’s economic development, fueling job creation, foreign investment, and international visibility. This panel will explore how Curaçao is leveraging its favorable investment climate—including tax incentives, streamlined regulatory processes, and strategic infrastructure upgrades—to attract global investors in the tourism and travel sector. From hotel development and tour operations to event management and niche tourism markets like golf, medical tourism, and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions), Curaçao offers a diverse range of high-potential opportunities. The discussion will also address efforts to improve service quality, elevate visitor experiences, and promote sustainable tourism practices that protect the island’s unique cultural and natural assets.
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Curaçao’s central industrial zone represents one of the island’s most significant opportunities for economic reinvention. With large tracts of strategically located land near deep-water port infrastructure, this area is primed to welcome new, future-focused development. From logistics and advanced manufacturing to energy innovation and circular industry, the available lands can serve as a catalyst for high-value investment and diversified job creation. This session brings together landholders and investment leaders to discuss the realities and potential of Curaçao’s industrial heartland—exploring infrastructure readiness, development plans, and globally competitive investment propositions. Attendees will gain insight into ongoing master-planning efforts and how Curaçao is positioning this strategic zone as a modern, resilient economic engine for the future.
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Curaçao is taking bold steps toward a sustainable future by accelerating the transition to renewable energy and positioning itself as a pioneering hub for innovation and resilience in the Caribbean. This panel will explore the island’s progress and potential in scaling up clean energy solutions—ranging from wind farms and solar parks to emerging sources like wave and biomass energy. Experts will discuss how to mobilize climate finance, conduct climate risk assessments, and redirect fossil fuel subsidies to catalyze green investment. The conversation will also examine the critical nexus between energy and other sectors such as water, agriculture, mobility, and waste management, emphasizing integrated solutions for sustainable growth.
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Curaçao’s unique marine biodiversity presents vast untapped potential for innovation and investment in the blue bioeconomy. This panel will dive into the exciting opportunities in bioprospecting—exploring marine organisms for valuable chemical compounds, genes, and natural products that can lead to groundbreaking applications in pharmaceuticals, food supplements, cosmetics, and novelty foods. With its rich coastal ecosystems and advanced research capabilities, Curaçao is emerging as a prime location for collaborative ventures involving universities, research institutions, spin-offs, incubators, and international biotech firms. The discussion will also highlight the role of contract research and manufacturing organizations (CROs and CMOs) in scaling discoveries to market.
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Curaçao’s vibrant creative sector holds immense potential as a driver of innovation, cultural identity, and economic growth. This panel will explore a targeted strategy to develop three high-potential subsectors—music, video and film, and marketing, communications, and web design—with a focus on tapping into export markets across Europe, North America, and Latin America. Discussions will highlight the importance of improving access to industry-specific equipment through regulatory adjustments, creating financing schemes tailored to creative entrepreneurs, and expanding skills training to engage youth and raise quality standards. Experts will also present exciting investment opportunities, including the development of festivals and events, musical production, feature films, art and film schools, and studio infrastructure. With strong interest from international broadcasters and advertising agencies, Curaçao is well-positioned to become a regional hub for creative excellence and intellectual property development.
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Location: Gouverneursplein (Punda)
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Government and Invest in Willemstad leaders set the stage for Willemstad’s transformation
With:
- Representative Ministry of Traffic, Transport, and Urban Planning of Curaçao
- Representative Ministry of Economic Development of Curaçao
- Hans van Aalst, Kwartiermaker Willemstad
- Rob v/d Bergh, Founding Father of “Invest in Willemstad”
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With:
- Noura Ayoubi, ESG Expert
- Mikayla Huizer, EcoVision*
- Dr. Manfred van Veghel, Director, Caribbean Research and Management of Biodiversity (CARMABI) Foundation*
Moderated by:
- Juan Carlos Goilo
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Special reveal: Live Happy Live Green
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Linking the port to commerce, blue economy, and smart logistics.
With:
- Sander Rijsdijk, Chief Development Officer, 2Bays Curaçao
- Agustín Díaz Jr., Managing Director, CDM Holding
- Kurt Verbist, JAJO
- Milaika Capella Ras, Caribbean Shipping Association
Moderated by:
- Tamira La Cruz
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Adaptive reuse of monuments, government buildings, and markets.
With:
- Johan van Megesen, New Owner, La Bonanza (O)
- Lyongo Juliana, Architect
- Hans van Aalst, Kwartiermaker Willemstad
- Maghalie van der Bunt-George, Monumentenzorg
- Caroline Manuel, Director of the Infrastructure and Urban Planning Sector, Ministry of Traffic, Transport and Urban Planning of Curaçao
- Robert Jan Snijders, YouMeet
Moderated by:
- Jhanira Da Costa Gomez Anita
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Wellness tourism and stadium district redevelopment
With:
- Nasser Ayoubi, ADC
- Vergily Winklar, Director FDDK
- Farley Virginia, Heren 2
- Curaçao Wellness Association*
Moderated by:
- Samari Barriento
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Tech incubators, smart mobility, fintech innovation
With:
- Monique Raphaela, CITI
- Profound Projects*
- Geraume Bor, Chairman, Curaçao Fintech Association & Chief Technology Officer, Ictual
- Jordan Emanuelson, ISACA
Moderated by:
- Raymond Jamanika
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Specialty retail, gastronomy, curated nightlife strategies
With:
- Tony Espineira, Owner, Kaffe 5999/ Downtown
- Jo-Anne Evers, SKO
- Swinging Old Lady Brewery*
- Kurt Schoop. Kaya Kaya
Moderated by:
- Andre Rojer
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Invest in Willemstad Facilitation Office & Presentation Innovation Hub
With:
- Miles Mercera, CEO, CINEX
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Projects:
- Raymond Jamanica, Stadium District
- Jonathan Harms, Rum SanPablo Scharloo
- RobertJan Snijder, YouMeet Curaçao
- Remy Ricardo, Marshe Nobo
Moderated by:
- Sam K. Kruiner, Export Development Consultant, Ministry of Economic Development of Curacao and CINEX