Why do only Dutch companies get all the opportunities?
A concerning development has drawn public attention: in recent times, most major projects in Aruba seem to be granted to Dutch companies.
This has sparked unrest and criticism, with many citizens asking:
Is Geoffrey Wever the Minister of Economy for Aruba, or for the Netherlands?
According to several local entrepreneurs and citizens, it appears that Minister Wever is prioritizing progress for Dutch businesses, while local entrepreneurs and producers are left behind.
Many small and medium-sized enterprises, already struggling to survive, are now finding it even harder to compete.
Farmers negatively affected
A group particularly affected are the Aruban farmers (cunukeros), who have raised the alarm about what they call harmful developments.
Instead of granting agricultural land to local farmers, the minister has allocated land to Dutch companies, making farming much more expensive.
As a result, local growers find it nearly impossible to compete with the financial power and resources of foreign investors.
Unfair competition
This situation has created an unfair competitive environment between local businesses and the large foreign corporations operating in Aruba, such as Do It Center and PriceSmart.
This raises the question:
What is the real intention behind this economic policy?
Critics argue that this policy hurts local entrepreneurship and raises doubts about the government’s commitment to building a truly Aruban economy.
If this happens without the Kingdom Law, what will happen after it?
Concerns are growing, especially since all of this is happening even before the new Kingdom Law HOFA has taken effect.
The MEP faction warns that once the law is implemented, the Netherlands will gain even more power and control over Aruba.
“The Futuro party is pushing for the Kingdom Law HOFA, while AVP has always opposed it,” MEP stated.
“It’s now clear why — the law would hand over more control to the Netherlands and further erode Aruba’s autonomy.”
A call for vigilance
The MEP faction urges the people of Aruba to stay alert and not allow these developments to continue unnoticed.
“Our economy and autonomy are at stake,” said the party.
“Aruba must stand firm in protecting its interests, its people, and its future.”
Press Release: Movimiento Electoral di Pueblo (MEP)