Parliamentarian Endy Croes stated that Aruba’s national debt is projected to reach 61% by the end of 2026, emphasizing the island’s 40-year history of financial responsibility. Speaking in Parliament, Croes defended Aruba’s track record since the introduction of the Status Aparte, noting that the country has consistently met its obligations to international markets, including those in New York, without ever defaulting.
According to Croes, this history of compliance should provide the Netherlands with the necessary confidence regarding the repayment of COVID-19 support loans. He contextualized the current financial situation by referencing the “Mega Debt” accumulated between 2010 and 2017, during which time the debt ratio rose from 43% to 93% following the borrowing of 2.2 billion guilders to cover annual budget deficits.
Financial reports indicate that the structural reduction implemented by the Wever-Croes II Cabinet remains on track. Croes highlighted that the national debt is forecast to drop to 47% by 2029, aligning with the advice of the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
