UFA: Local Agriculture Must remain a strategic priority for Aruba

As Aruba enters 2026, the United Farmers Association of Aruba (UFA) expresses cautious optimism for the year ahead and reaffirms its commitment to strengthening local food production as a pillar of national resilience. The disruptions felt in Aruba following the events of January 3rd in Venezuela, which led to widespread flight cancellations and logistical uncertainty, served as a clear reminder, much like during the COVID-19 pandemic, of how quickly external events can affect the island’s supply chains. These moments underscore the urgency of treating food sovereignty and security as a strategic priority. Aruba cannot afford to lose sight of the lessons learned during times of crisis, when access to imported goods is suddenly constrained and local capacity becomes essential. The UFA has consistently stressed the importance of incentivizing and protecting Aruba’s farming community. Local farmers are not merely producers; they are a critical safeguard for the island, maintaining the capacity, knowledge, and infrastructure needed to ensure continuity of food supply when international systems are disrupted. As regional conditions stabilize and markets normalize, the UFA cautions policymakers against reverting to an over-dependence on cheap imported produce. Short-term affordability must not undermine long-term resilience. Sustained policy support, including access to land, water, electrical utilities, financing, technology, and the extension and improvement of existing tax incentives that enable local farmers to remain competitive and to reinvest in modern, efficient, and sustainable production systems is essential to ensure that local agriculture remains viable and competitive. The United Farmers Association of Aruba looks to 2026 with good hopes, confident that with clear priorities and consistent commitment, Aruba can continue building a stronger, more self-reliant, and resilient food system that serves both farmers and the wider community. About the United Farmers Association of Aruba The United Farmers Association of Aruba represents and supports local farmers, advocating for a resilient, sustainable, and competitive agricultural sector that contributes to long-term food security for Aruba.