Aruba’s Minister of Economic Affairs, Geoffrey Wever, has announced that the government, with support from the Netherlands’ TWO program, has appointed Elwin Groenevelt as project manager to help bring the island’s first Agri Innovation Park to life.
The Agri Innovation Park is one of two flagship projects under the expanded Landspakket agreement with the Netherlands. Its goal is to transform Aruba’s agricultural sector into an innovative and economically significant industry, helping diversify the national economy.
The first step in this broader initiative was a study by Priva/Greengrounds, examining the best use of greenhouses for commercial agriculture on the island. The results of that study will now serve as the foundation for the new Agri Innovation Park, setting concrete steps for agriculture to become a key contributor to Aruba’s economy. Creating new economic sectors is central to the AVP-FUTURO Cabinet’s inclusive economic strategy.
As project manager, Groenevelt will oversee Phase 1, which will establish the groundwork for building the Agri Innovation Park. This preparation phase will include a market and economic feasibility study, a financial, operational, and organizational model, and an investment plan. It will also feature technical designs and management plans for the park’s facilities and infrastructure. In addition, Groenevelt will map out the planning for Phases 2 and 3, which will involve the park’s construction and future operation.
The park is expected to boost local food production, reduce dependence on imports, and strengthen food security through modern technology and support for agricultural entrepreneurs.
To finance Phase 1, the Netherlands will provide $75,000 through the Landspakket, while Aruba will contribute $10,000 from the Ministry of Economic Affairs budget. The Landspakket serves as an important tool for Aruba’s development, making it possible to create and carry out concrete projects in an integrated way. Aruba’s cooperation with the Netherlands has so far been positive, providing valuable expertise, funding, and technical assistance. The Landspakket offers Aruba a resource to advance much-needed reforms and deliver on its economic vision for the well-being of all its citizens. The government stresses the importance of making continued good use of this partnership.
“Elwin Groenevelt’s expertise, network, and experience in the Netherlands, Europe, and the Caribbean parts of the Dutch Kingdom will be a great asset for Aruba in developing its first Agri Innovation Park,” said Minister Wever.
The AVP-FUTURO Cabinet is confident that the park will soon become a reality, giving local producers the chance to grow fruits and vegetables in a structured and technologically advanced way, which will benefit Aruba’s economy and its food security.
