During a public parliamentary session on Tuesday, Minister of Finance and Economic Affairs Geoffrey Wever provided further clarification on Aruba’s newly introduced fiscal incentive policies, highlighting that the revitalization of downtown Oranjestad and San Nicolas is a key priority. He also confirmed that the Aruba Freezone is being repositioned to benefit from new economic opportunities.
Minister Wever explained that four major policy documents came into effect on January 1, 2026, following years of preparation. These include the Expat Regulation, the Incentive Policy for Oranjestad and San Nicolas, the Starters Regulation, and new activity frameworks for the Aruba Freezone.
According to Wever, the development of these measures began more than three years ago with the establishment of the Economic Recovery Commission, which brought together stakeholders such as AHATA, ATIA, the Freezone authority, tax specialists, lawyers, accountants, and the Department of Economic Affairs. The commission conducted extensive benchmarking studies, analyzing incentive models used by other countries in the region to attract investment and business development.
Based on these studies and recommendations, the commission proposed several strategies aimed at strengthening Aruba’s economic pillars. One of the key outcomes was the design of targeted incentives for Oranjestad and San Nicolas, which were identified as priority areas for urban and economic redevelopment.
Minister Wever noted that when the AVP–Futuro cabinet took office, much of the groundwork had already been completed. However, difficult choices had to be made regarding which measures could realistically be implemented by January 2026, given the complexity and time required to finalize legislation and policy frameworks.
As a result, the government prioritized:
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A fully modernized Expat Regulation,
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The introduction of the Starters Regulation to support new businesses,
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A focused incentive program to revitalize downtown Oranjestad and San Nicolas, and
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The creation of new opportunities for the Aruba Freezone, aimed at attracting new clients and economic activity.
“These initiatives are the result of long-term planning and collaboration,” Minister Wever emphasized, adding that they are designed to stimulate sustainable growth, encourage entrepreneurship, and strengthen Aruba’s economic future.
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