WILLEMSTAD – Restaurants and cafés on Curaçao recorded higher turnover in 2025, but rising costs and persistent bureaucracy mean that many businesses are left with little profit. The warning comes from the Curaçao Restaurant Association (CRA), which says structural problems continue to undermine the sector.
According to the CRA, 2025 can be described as a strong year in terms of revenue, largely driven by growing tourism and increased visitor spending. However, sharply higher purchasing costs and ongoing inflation have eaten into margins. As a result, higher turnover does not automatically translate into higher profits for restaurant owners.
Lengthy permit procedures remain a major obstacle
One of the long-standing issues highlighted by the CRA concerns work and residence permits for foreign staff. Although the moratorium on permits has been lifted, processing times remain excessively long. Employers often wait several months for approvals, making it difficult to plan staffing levels and maintain service quality.
The association is also calling for longer permit durations. At present, most permits are valid for just one year, which the CRA says discourages foreign workers. “It is unrealistic to expect people to leave their families behind for only one year,” the organization argues. The CRA is advocating for permits with a validity of three to five years.
New restaurant legislation stalled for years
Concerns were also raised about outdated restaurant licensing regulations. Four years ago, the CRA offered assistance to the Ministry of Economic Development in drafting new legislation. While a draft proposal has long been ready, it has yet to be implemented.
Under the current system, entrepreneurs wishing to open a restaurant must apply for a wide range of permits, including restaurant, bar, coffeehouse, nuisance, establishment, environmental, and customs permits. Additional permits are required for music and female service staff.
The latter permit was supposed to be abolished after Parliament approved the relevant bill. However, because the law has not yet been officially published, businesses are still required to apply for it.
Taxi shortages affecting tourism experience
The CRA also pointed to growing problems in the taxi sector. With rising tourist numbers, there are too few taxis available, leading to long waiting times. In some cases, visitors reportedly wait up to an hour to be transported from the airport to their hotels.
The association is urging the government to act swiftly. According to the CRA, an efficient and modern licensing system is essential for a healthy hospitality sector on Curaçao. The organization says it is ready to work with authorities to help develop practical solutions.
