Willemstad, Curaçao – April 7, 2025
The Curaçao Hospitality and Tourism Association (CHATA) successfully hosted its first quarterly Membership Meeting of 2025 on Friday, April 4th, at the Central Bank of Curaçao and Sint Maarten (CBCS). Over 130 tourism stakeholders, including CHATA members, board representatives, government ministers, and industry partners, gathered to engage in meaningful dialogue and chart the way forward for the island’s tourism sector.
The event was officially opened on behalf of the Board by Mr. Jeffrey Speelman, General Manager (Interim) at Sandals.
Highlights of the Meeting
CHATA Updates & Sector Vision
CHATA CEO Anuschka M Cova presented a dynamic update on CHATA’s current initiatives, including strategic partnerships, government dialogue, and cross-sector collaboration. Emphasizing insights from the 2024 member survey, she reiterated the importance of member engagement, community involvement, and preserving Curaçao’s authentic identity.
Two ongoing national campaigns were featured:
– #nosTURismo – Celebrating local pride in tourism
– The Story of Curaçao – Showcasing real stories from local tourism professionals
CHATA also shared progress from the National Tourism Council (NTC), which drives seven thematic pillars and 25 resolutions through a dedicated implementation team.
Government & Industry Insights
– Minister Charles Cooper reaffirmed government support for entrepreneurship and tourism development.
– Ronella Croes, CEO of the Aruba Tourism Authority (ATA), offered lessons from Aruba’s regenerative tourism strategy and its shift from volume to value-based growth.
– Christine Champagnard (CTB) presented a 2025 outlook forecasting a 9% increase in arrivals, supported by research on tourism impact and sustainability.
– Richard Doornbosch, CBCS President, emphasized a “People, Profit, Planet” approach, advocating sustainable tourism aligned with Curaçao’s long-term capacity.
– Humberto de Castro, CPA Managing Director, shared strong cruise sector growth: 800,000 passengers expected in 2024 and Curaçao earning top-5 rankings in the BREA survey.
Key CPA updates included:
– AI-enhanced security and operations
– Mathey Wharf and Rif Terminal upgrades (2025)
– Sustainability initiatives like solar walkways and marine conservation support
Workforce & Education Development
Harry Allaard from VIVENTE SBO presented the impact of their HORECA programs, aimed at addressing workforce gaps and preparing students for long-term careers in hospitality.
Strengthening Partnerships
A key milestone of the event was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between CHATA and CINEX (Curaçao Investment & Export Promotion Agency). CINEX CEO Miles Mercera and CHATA CEO Anuschka M Cova formally signed the agreement, emphasizing the strength of collaboration and a shared commitment to driving innovation, investment, and growth in Curaçao’s tourism and hospitality industry.
Mercera highlighted the significance of the partnership, stating: “Tourism is one of Curaçao’s strongest investment pillars, and by aligning CINEX’s global network with CHATA’s industry expertise, we can create new opportunities for innovation and sustainable development in the sector.”
Additionally, CHATA proudly announced its new membership with Club 17, promoting the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through strategic collaboration.
Looking Ahead
CHATA extends heartfelt appreciation to all attendees, speakers, and sponsors — including Building Depot and MCB — for their continued support. The association looks forward to further strengthening collaboration across the sector and advancing a sustainable and inclusive future for tourism in Curaçao.
