Willemstad/ Philipsburg:---  According to a study by the Centrale Bank van Curaçao en Sint Maarten (CBCS), microcredit is a valuable financing tool for entrepreneurs in Curaçao.
However, its overall impact on economic development is limited. The findings suggest that better alignment between loan amounts, expenditure plans, and business potential, as well as more targeted support for borrowers after loan disbursement, can significantly improve outcomes. Streamlining the loan application process and offering more tailored and sustained guidance could better support the long-term growth of these microcredit businesses.
The research paper presents the first comprehensive mapping of the microcredit market for small businesses in Curaçao. It identifies key areas to improve the effectiveness of microcredit as a financial instrument. The study is based on interviews with representatives of lending institutions
and survey responses from clients who have received microloans in recent years. The survey explored the characteristics of entrepreneurs and businesses that have obtained microcredit and the conditions under which such loans are most successful.
Four institutions have offered microcredit in Curaçao since the 1990s, three of which remain active in this market segment today. Together, they extended 403 loans until June 2024.
The analysis highlights the crucial role of these institutions in providing microcredit to entrepreneurs who lack access to traditional financing, particularly those starting a business.
However, the findings also reveal that startups face greater challenges in repaying loans and achieving profit growth, underscoring the difficulties faced by new businesses in leveraging microcredit for sustained growth.
The data further indicates that while significant guidance is provided before loan disbursement, less attention is given to post-loan support, despite borrower feedback highlighting it as crucial for long-term success. Extending support beyond the initial loan phase and tailoring it to the type and growth stage of the business could significantly improve business outcomes.
Although the microcredit market is a relatively small segment of the financial sector in Curaçao, small businesses remain an important contributor to employment, economic activity, and innovation. This study emphasizes the significant untapped potential of microcredit. Improving and scaling up initiatives could reduce barriers to finance for small businesses and generate positive outcomes for the broader economy.
The CBCS extends its sincere appreciation to the participating institutions and borrowers for their valuable contributions to this research.

The research paper is available at: https://www.centralbank.cw/functions/research.

Willemstad, April 23, 2025
CENTRALE BANK VAN CURACAO EN SINT MAARTEN

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Police Force of Sint Maarten (KPSM) is reminding all motorists and road users to adhere to traffic and parking regulations in and around the Festival Village and on Suoaliga Road during the ongoing Carnival season.

KPSM has observed that many drivers are parking on both sides of Suoaliga Road, creating serious disruptions to the free traffic flow during events in the area. Motorists are therefore strongly urged to avoid parking along Suoaliga Road to help maintain accessibility for emergency vehicles, public transportation, and smooth traffic movement.

As an alternative, drivers are encouraged to use the parking lot next to the Government Building, which provides safe and adequate parking within close walking distance of the Festival Village.

In addition, police have received multiple complaints about large groups of scooters and motorcycle riders using the walkway in front of the Festival Village as a parking area. This practice poses significant dangers to pedestrians and will no longer be tolerated.

For the public's safety, entering and exiting the Festival Village, KPSM will begin active enforcement against improper parking, including issuing fines and removing vehicles when necessary.

KPSM Press Release.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Sint Maarten Police Force (KPSM) hereby provides an update following the official opening Jump-Up of Carnival 2025, which took place on Saturday, April 19, 2025.

The parade commenced shortly after 8:00 PM and concluded around 11:00 PM at the Festival Village. KPSM is pleased to report that the event was well-attended and, for the most part, proceeded in good order. However, several law enforcement interventions were necessary during the evening to address serious criminal violations.

In recent weeks, the Sint Maarten Police Force has issued multiple public warnings regarding unacceptable behavior during Carnival festivities, with particular emphasis on the possession and use of firearms and illegal narcotics. These warnings have been made in the interest of public safety and the overall well-being of our community.

Despite these repeated advisories, KPSM officers were required to conduct several targeted controls during the Jump-Up. During one such control in the Bush Road area, a male suspect was apprehended in possession of narcotics. He was arrested and transported to the Philipsburg Police Station, where he remains in custody for further questioning.

Later that evening, officers observed suspicious behavior involving a group of young men on scooters on the side of the road. During the control of the group, one of the other suspects was found to have a quantity of narcotics. Upon further investigation, another individual was found to have a firearm inside a bag. As officers attempted to carry out the arrests, another group of males at the location became disorderly and actively interfered with police efforts to detain the suspects. Both the firearm and the narcotics were confiscated as evidence. All four individuals were arrested and transported to the police station,

The Sint Maarten Police Force strongly condemns any attempt to carry weapons or obstruct police operations, especially during significant public events. KPSM reiterates in the most precise possible terms: Anyone found possessing an illegal firearm will be immediately arrested. This is non-negotiable.

KPSM remains steadfast in its mission to safeguard the community and ensure that Carnival 2025 is a joyful and secure celebration for all. The public is reminded that safety is a collective responsibility, and cooperation with law enforcement is essential.

It should not be overlooked that the swift and decisive action taken by officers during this scooter control may have prevented a far more serious incident. By removing a firearm from the street, the Sint Maarten Police Force may have saved a life.

KPSM Press Release.

PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Justice Nathalie M. Tackling and Prison Director Steven Carty reaffirm their commitment to upholding care, dignity, and cultural respect within the correctional system, especially during significant occasions like the Easter holiday. While not legally required, offering special meals on public holidays is a gesture of goodwill. Over the Easter weekend, inmates received the following meals: snapper with pigeon peas and salad on Friday; baked and fried chicken with rice and green salad on Saturday; pork chop or oxtail with kidney beans and mixed salad on Sunday; and BBQ-glazed chicken with stewed peas and salad on Monday. “We continue this tradition as a gesture of dignity and religious recognition,” said Minister Tackling. “It reflects our commitment to humane and respectful treatment.” Director Carty confirmed the facility operated as planned over the holiday, with all meals prepared and distributed accordingly. “We remain focused on consistent care and operational integrity,” he stated. Throughout the Easter weekend, there were no reported incidents, and operations remained normal within the facility. Customary holiday meals were provided as part of a longstanding tradition. While some inmates were unsatisfied, management promptly addressed their grievances through established protocols and communication procedures. "Recognizing that misinformation can occasionally circulate, the Ministry emphasizes the importance of reporting based on verified facts." Minister Tackling concluded, "Transparency and accountability are key pillars of my leadership. We encourage constructive dialogue through the proper channels and remain fully committed to strengthening our justice system and upholding the humane treatment of all individuals under our care."