Wever seeks solutions for water, land and energy challenges

ORANJESTAD – Minister Geoffrey Wever met with UFA, CPCA, DLVV and Stichting Hadicurari to discuss challenges affecting Aruba’s agriculture, livestock and fishing sectors.

The organizations raised concerns about the availability and cost of water, limited agricultural land, damage caused by roaming dogs, high energy prices, tax uncertainty, pesticide use and administrative obstacles involving imports.

The government is working on a pilot project to channel recycled water to the Santa Rosa dam. It is also exploring the development of an agricultural park offering land, infrastructure and basic facilities. Possible legal measures concerning roaming dogs will be evaluated, while energy costs will be discussed with WEB.

Wever confirmed that existing tax exemptions for agricultural businesses will remain in effect.

“We must determine who is responsible for each challenge and when the sector can expect feedback,” Wever said. He will continue meeting periodically with sector organizations to monitor progress and develop practical solutions.