The Netherlands Antilles Economy

Due to the location of the Netherlands Antilles in the Caribbean Sea, economy of the five islands is mostly based on tourism. In Curacao and St. Maarten, financial services make a large part of the island’s revenues. The offshore sector has become a main pillar supporting their economy. A fast developing telecommunication sector is also playing an increasing role in the island’s economic development. Curacao has some industry, mainly related to its petrol refinery and transshipment facilities. Curacao also has a small manufacturing industry but practically all goods are imported. In Curacao and Bonaire, the soil as well as lack of water allow only little agricultural activitiy, while there plans to build up this sector on the Leeward Islands. The Netherlands Antilles largely benefit from the Dutch Kingdom’s financial support. Altogether, the islands have a decent per-capita income - compared to other parts of the Caribbean - as well as a good general infrastructure.