Tax incentives stimulate economic development in downtown Oranjestad and San Nicolas.

These measures will take effect on January 1, 2026.
Oranjestad and San Nicolas possess significant potential that is currently underutilized. Many properties in both centers are vacant or in a state of disrepair. The new tax incentives are intended to encourage owners of such properties to renovate or sell their properties to willing parties. In return, they will be eligible for a range of tax benefits.

Minister of Finance, Economic Affairs, and the Primary Sector, Geoffrey Wever, explains: "The temporary tax incentives apply to the center of Oranjestad and San Nicolas and will take effect on January 1, 2026. They include a ten-year exemption from corporate income tax and dividend tax, as well as a temporary exemption from current account tax, the BBO (Business Turnover Tax), and the AZV (Agricultural Insurance Act) destination levy for the renovation and sale of buildings. The investment needs to be completed within the next two years.

Thanks to these tax incentives, initial investment costs will decrease, making renovation projects more financially feasible while also reducing the overall tax burden. It makes investing in buildings in the center of Oranjestad and San Nicolas considerably more attractive.
The tax incentives apply to a minimum investment of 500,000 guilders. For investors who cannot fully utilize the exemption scheme, there is also the option of depreciating development and renovation costs arbitrarily. It enables them to actively participate in revitalizing city centers.

With the introduction of this new tax policy, the government is creating a clear and transparent investment climate for historic city centers. By promoting collaboration between the government and the private sector, it is encouraging the revitalization of downtown Oranjestad and San Nicolas, making it possible to utilize the buildings for housing, restaurants, cafes, offices, and shops.

The administration of this policy is in accordance with the AVP-FUTURO Government Program 2025–2028 and follows the recommendations of the Economic Recovery Commission 2023. This commission was established and chaired by Minister Wever to formulate tax incentives. The commission consisted of representatives from, among others, the Chamber of Commerce (KVK), AHATA, the Freezone, several lawyers, a tax specialist, and several accountants.