THE HAGUE – Multiple reforms are underway to address long-standing barriers to economic development on Saba, St. Eustatius and Bonaire, according to a progress report released this week by the Dutch Ministry of Interior and Kingdom Relations. Key improvements target banking access, transport costs, telecom connectivity and digitization.
One major breakthrough is the relaxation of the financial-sector establishment requirement for Saba and St. Eustatius, allowing ING to offer banking in euros by late 2026 and to open physical branches. This is expected to stimulate investment, reduce dependency on cash, and eventually enable local businesses to access loans more easily.
In addition, the Dutch Central Bank plans to place ATMs on Saba and St. Eustatius in early 2026, addressing years-long concerns over access to cash.
On transportation, the cabinet has proposed legislation enabling a Public Service Obligation (PSO) for inter-island flights, which could reduce the notoriously high ticket prices that limit mobility and tourism. A structural funding decision will be left to the next Dutch government.
Meanwhile, preparations continue for the islands’ inclusion in major telecom upgrades. Bonaire and Curaçao are scheduled to be connected to the new CELIA subsea data cable in 2027, boosting digital resilience and enabling advanced e-government services.