Aruba sets new limits on consumer credit costs

ORANJESTAD – The Central Bank of Aruba (CBA) is reminding consumers that new legal limits on certain consumer credit costs have been in effect since August 1, 2026, under Article 5 of the Landsverordening regeling consumentenkrediet.

The rules apply to new consumer credit agreements as well as existing loans that are refinanced, restructured or extended after August 1, 2026.

Under the regulation, interest and other costs related to a loan may not exceed 25% per year. If a consumer falls behind on payments, late-payment charges may not exceed 2% per month, calculated on the outstanding amount.

If a consumer decides to repay a loan fully or partially ahead of schedule, the maximum charge for early repayment is 7.5% of the amount paid in advance.

For out-of-court collection costs, consumers may not be charged more than the amount permitted under the applicable court liquidation tariff. These costs may include reminders, notifications and administrative fees.

The Central Bank advises consumers to take these maximum charges into account when entering into a consumer credit agreement.

The CBA will be responsible for supervising compliance once the Consumer Credit Regulation Ordinance enters fully into force, which is expected on January 1, 2027.