Economic Controls

Welcome to the Economic Inspection Team of Curaçao

Our dedicated team at the Ministry conducts daily inspections to ensure compliance with economic regulations across all types of establishments and businesses in Curacao. We prioritize maintaining a fair and transparent economic environment, safeguarding the interests of businesses and consumers alike.

The main tasks are to carry out the Economic Controls and Calibrations.

Economic Controls:
Establishment permits
Pricing (maximum prices, indication of product prices, correct indication of product weight and price comparisons)
HORECA permits
Supermarkets, minimarkets and toko’s
Closing hours of all the above

Calibration of all weighing instruments/tools at:
Pharmacies
Gas Stations
Weighbridges
All establishments with a scale and or weighing instrument

 

The Economic Inspection team of the Ministry in Curaçao plays a crucial role in upholding economic regulations and standards across various establishments and businesses. Their daily operations are primarily focused on two key functions: Economic Controls and Calibrations.

Economic Controls involve a wide range of activities aimed at ensuring compliance with established rules and regulations. This includes verifying establishment permits to operate legally, monitoring pricing practices to prevent price gouging or unfair pricing strategies, especially in essential goods and services. This can involve setting and enforcing maximum prices, ensuring clear indication of product prices, verifying the accuracy of product weight measurements, and conducting price comparisons to detect discrepancies.

Additionally, the team oversees compliance with permits for establishments in the hospitality sector (HORECA), such as restaurants, bars, and hotels, and regulates the closing hours of various establishments to maintain order and adherence to regulations.

On the other hand, Calibration activities are focused on maintaining accuracy and reliability in measurements, particularly in weighing instruments and tools used in various sectors. The team ensures that weighing instruments and tools, such as those used in pharmacies for measuring medications, gas stations for dispensing fuel, and weighbridges for accurately weighing goods and vehicles, are properly calibrated. This ensures fair transactions and prevents discrepancies that could lead to economic losses or unfair practices.

By conducting daily checks and inspections, the Economic Inspection team helps foster a fair and transparent economic environment in Curaçao. Their efforts contribute to consumer (and vice versa) protection, fair competition among businesses, and overall economic stability.

In addition to their regular inspections, the Economic Inspection team collaborates closely with a multidisciplinary approach, often joining forces with various other inspection units and departments. One such significant collaboration is with HORECA establishments, where the team partners with different entities such as the Health Inspection (GMN), Labor Inspection (SOAW), Customs (Douane), Tax Office (SBAB), Police Officers from various departments, and the Fire Brigade and more.

This collaboration serves a crucial purpose: to streamline the inspection process for establishments.
This not only reduces the administrative burden on establishments but also ensures a comprehensive assessment of compliance with various regulations.

Each member of the multidisciplinary team brings their unique expertise and authority to the table. For instance, the Health Inspection team focuses on ensuring hygiene standards and food safety regulations are met, while the Labor Inspection team oversees compliance with labor laws and worker safety regulations. Customs officers may verify compliance with import/export regulations, while tax officials ensure adherence to financial regulations. Police officers may be involved in addressing security concerns, and the Fire Brigade assesses fire safety measures.

By pooling resources and expertise, the multidisciplinary team can conduct more thorough and efficient inspections, covering a broader range of regulatory aspects in a single visit. This collaborative approach not only benefits businesses by minimizing disruption but also enhances the effectiveness of regulatory enforcement efforts.

Moreover, each member of the team operates within their respective area of expertise and authority, ensuring that inspections are conducted in accordance with established regulations and standards. This ensures that businesses are held accountable for compliance while also respecting the boundaries of each agency’s jurisdiction.

Ultimately, the collaboration between the Economic Inspection team and various other inspection units exemplifies a coordinated and proactive approach to regulatory oversight. By working together, these entities contribute to the promotion of a safe, fair, and compliant business environment in Curaçao, benefiting both businesses and consumers alike.

To report any concerns, we welcome you to reach out to us via WhatsApp messaging (ONLY) at +59995621444.
Your communication matters to us, and we’re committed to address your needs accordingly.