THE HAGUE – High inter-island travel costs remain a major obstacle to economic integration and regional cooperation in the Caribbean Netherlands, prompting new legislative and financial measures from the Dutch government. The issue features prominently in the latest progress report on economic development.
A long-awaited legislative proposal enabling Public Service Obligations (PSO) for air routes has been sent to the Dutch parliament. If adopted, it would allow the government to subsidize essential flight connections between Saba, St. Eustatius, St. Maarten and Bonaire. For many residents and businesses, high airfares severely restrict mobility, access to healthcare, and trade.
The cabinet acknowledges that inter-island travel prices are among the highest per kilometer in the region. While the legislation sets the foundation for subsidies, an actual funding decision will fall to the next government in The Hague.
A parallel investigation is examining the role of ferries and alternative maritime links, though initial findings suggest that steep fuel costs and long travel times remain barriers.
In addition to aviation reforms, the Netherlands is preparing legal changes to modernize the Maritime Traffic Act (Scheepvaartverkeerswet BES), ensuring safer shipping routes and better emergency coordination—crucial for territories dependent on maritime supply chains.
The report notes that improving mobility is essential for economic diversification, especially as the islands aim to develop regional roles in tourism, agriculture and logistics. Better connectivity would also make the labor market more flexible, giving employers access to a broader talent pool.