Francis Saladin, Vice President of the Comerciantenan Uni Aruba (CUA), has urged politicians to stop using local merchants as scapegoats for rising prices in Aruba. Speaking in an interview with DIARIO, Saladin emphasized that strong competition among businesses already drives fair pricing across the island.
He explained that the market is highly responsive: “If one merchant lowers prices, others must follow — otherwise, they lose sales. Information about pricing spreads instantly through social media; consumers today know exactly where to find the best deals.”
Saladin pointed out that while merchants do their best to keep prices affordable, many cost increases come from government policies, including higher water and electricity rates and rising land taxes (grondbelasting). “These are not imported costs — they are local. If the government can raise such costs, why not offer relief to citizens when it comes to food prices?” he questioned.
He also criticized politicians who use price debates for election purposes, saying, “Stop labeling merchants as the problem just to win votes. Present your ideas honestly and earn your votes fairly. Don’t turn the public against the very businesses that keep Aruba’s economy running.”
Saladin’s message reflects growing concern within the Aruban business community, which continues to face challenges from international market pressures, local taxation, and shifting public perceptions.
photo Credits : https://diario.aw/categories/noticia/general/stop-di-instiga-pueblo-contra-e-comerciantenan
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