Netherlands Heading Into Winter With Insufficient Gas Reserves

A price comparison survey of pharmacies across Curaçao has uncovered dramatic price differences of more than 170 percent for identical products sold at different locations on the island. The findings highlight significant disparities in the cost of medicines and pharmacy goods that consumers may be unknowingly paying, depending on which pharmacy they visit. The investigation points to a lack of price regulation or standardization in the pharmaceutical retail sector in Curaçao. Such wide variations can place a disproportionate burden on lower-income residents who may not have the means to shop around for better prices. The results have raised questions about consumer protection and the need for greater pricing transparency in the local healthcare market. Authorities and consumer advocacy groups may face renewed pressure to address pricing oversight in the pharmacy sector following the publication of these findings.

Dutch national railway company NS has launched a new discount campaign aimed at encouraging travelers to ride trains during less busy hours. The promotion offers approximately 30 percent off fares for passengers who choose to travel outside of peak times. The initiative is designed to ease congestion on busy routes by spreading passenger loads more evenly throughout the day. Off-peak travel incentives have been a recurring strategy for NS as it looks to manage capacity on its network. The campaign reflects broader efforts by public transport operators to balance demand and improve the overall travel experience. While this news originates from the Netherlands, it is being discussed in Curaçao media, likely due to the island's close ties with the Dutch mainland and the many residents who travel to or have family there.

Curaçao's state-owned company 2Bays — formerly known as RdK — ended the year 2025 with a positive balance of 2 million, Prime Minister Gilmar Pisas announced to Parliament. The company recorded total revenues of 80 million against expenditures of 78 million, resulting in the modest but notable surplus. RdK, the Refineria di Kòrsou, rebranded to 2Bays as part of ongoing efforts to diversify its operations beyond the island's oil refinery. The positive cashflow figure signals financial stability for the government-linked entity amid years of uncertainty surrounding the future of the refinery site. The announcement is significant as 2Bays manages one of Curaçao's most strategically important industrial assets. Pisas's disclosure to Parliament reflects continued government accountability regarding the performance of state-owned enterprises.