Government Strengthens Cooperation with Sector Organizations to Address Challenges in Agriculture, Livestock, and Fisheries

The meeting focused on an open dialogue about the challenges farmers, livestock producers, and fishermen face in their daily work, as well as the concrete steps needed to further strengthen the sector. Among the issues discussed were water availability and costs, the lack of suitable land for agriculture, damage caused by stray dogs, high energy costs, fiscal uncertainty, pesticide use, and administrative challenges related to the importation of necessary products and materials.

“In order to sustainably strengthen our primary sector, we need to understand what is happening in practice. It is therefore important that we not only develop policies for the sector, but do so together with the people and organizations that are part of it. By identifying and monitoring these challenges together, we can work more effectively toward solutions that truly make a difference,” said Minister of Finance, Economic Affairs and the Primary Sector Geoffrey Wever.

Access to sufficient water at an affordable price remains one of the biggest challenges for local farmers. Currently, the government, together with Aruba Waste Water Solution (AWSS), DLVV, and the Department of Public Health (DVG), is working on a pilot project to transport recycled water to the Santa Rosa Dam, while DVG is involved in assessing the water quality.

The limited availability of land suitable for agriculture also received attention. The ministry is exploring the possibility of developing an agricultural park that would provide not only land, but also the infrastructure and basic facilities needed to facilitate local production.

CPCA raised the issue of stray dogs and the damage they cause to livestock. The government will evaluate, together with the stakeholders involved, what measures can be taken within the existing legal framework.

Energy costs are also a challenge, particularly for producers who rely on pumping systems, refrigeration, and hydroponic systems. The government will include this issue in future consultations with WEB.

During the meeting, UFA requested clarity regarding the fiscal position of entrepreneurs in the agricultural sector. The minister confirmed that the existing tax exemptions for businesses and organizations active in the agricultural sector will remain in effect.

“The conversations cannot stop at identifying problems. For every important challenge, we must determine who will be responsible for addressing it and when the sector can expect feedback. Only by bringing government and the sector closer together can we build a stronger, more professional, and future-ready primary sector,” said Minister Geoffrey Wever.