MOU Signed Between FreeZone Aruba and Aruba Ports Authority to Drive Modernization and Economic Growth
ORANJESTAD — On October 22, 2026, Minister of Finance, Economic Affairs, and Primary Sector Geoffrey Wever, Minister of Tourism, Transport, and Labor Wendrick Cicilia, and Minister of Infrastructure and Telecommunications René Herde signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between FreeZone Aruba N.V. (FZA) and Aruba Ports Authority N.V. (APA).
The MOU was formally signed by five key representatives: Minister Geoffrey Wever, Minister Wendrick Cicilia, Minister René Herde, Director of FreeZone Aruba N.V. Walter Mosher, and Director of Aruba Ports Authority N.V. Marc Figaroa.
This joint agreement reflects a shared commitment among the participating ministries and entities to continue driving the development of FreeZone Aruba as a strategic catalyst for economic growth and diversification.
A central objective of the agreement is to explore developing a modern FreeZone facility in Barcadera—a strategic location directly adjacent to Aruba’s primary cargo port. Currently, imported goods must be transported from the Barcadera port to the FreeZone in Bushiri, only to be moved back to Barcadera for export. Relocating FreeZone activities to Barcadera would eliminate redundant transit, significantly increasing operational efficiency for businesses.
Additionally, FreeZone Aruba’s Bushiri facilities are operating at full capacity, with a growing waiting list of interested enterprises. This high demand, coupled with the expansion of permitted FreeZone activities that took effect on January 1, 2026, highlights the urgent need for physical expansion and infrastructure modernization.
Following years of systematic reorganization and professionalization, FreeZone Aruba N.V. has achieved structured financial administration and two consecutive years of positive financial results. With stable administrative foundations, a newly appointed professional Director, and an expanded scope of authorized commercial activities, the organization's focus has shifted toward long-term growth and infrastructure investment.
"We have worked hard to put the foundation of FreeZone Aruba in order," said Minister Geoffrey Wever. "Now, we are in a position to focus on its future and create meaningful opportunities to diversify and develop our economy. The signing of this MOU is an important step toward creating the space required for more businesses to establish themselves and grow in Aruba."
By formalizing this relationship, FZA and APA are laying the groundwork to leverage their combined infrastructure, expertise, and regulatory mandates. The next phases will focus on evaluating development feasibility, defining necessary operational conditions, and coordinating among key agencies to ensure structured, responsible growth.