WILLEMSTAD, Curaçao — Curaçao is moving forward with efforts to secure independent membership in the World Trade Organization (WTO), putting international trade policy higher on the government’s political agenda.

Prime Minister Gilmar Pisas recently received a WTO delegation as Curaçao prepares for the accession process. The island has held observer status since March 2020 and must negotiate its own trade regime with WTO members before becoming a full member.

The move could give Curaçao a stronger direct voice in international trade discussions and agreements.

Government officials say WTO membership could strengthen the island’s position as an international trading partner by supporting a more transparent and predictable trade environment.

For Curaçao’s political leadership, the process also represents an important step in expanding the island’s international economic role while operating within the Kingdom of the Netherlands.

The accession process will require negotiations covering Curaçao’s trade rules and commitments under WTO agreements.

Supporters of the initiative see potential benefits for Curaçaoan exporters of goods and services, while the government will need to ensure that domestic businesses are prepared for the obligations that come with WTO membership.

The development also comes as Curaçao continues strengthening its regional and international relationships, including closer engagement with Caribbean institutions.

The WTO initiative could therefore become one of the more consequential elements of Curaçao’s long-term foreign economic policy.

Further negotiations and consultations will determine how quickly Curaçao can advance from its current status toward independent WTO membership.