http://www.aruba-bb.com/viewtopic.php?t=31812&sid=23b113e1f82a21ba8c1a513447171a50
Measures Disastrous For Island Economy Posted by Eddy: June 1st 2006, Aruba.
ORANJESTAD-The increase of import duties on luxury products effective as of today will have a negative affect on tourism, the economy and the population, that is the conclusion of the Aruba Trade & Industry Association (ATIA).
According to ATIA it is time for the government to sit down at the table with social partners and together find a solution for the growing problems facing Aruba today. The solution does not lie in increasing import duties on luxury products.
The Aruban community is beginning to absorb the high oil prices on the global market which has already weakened consumer spending and slowed economic growth on the island. It is irresponsible to add more measures on the Aruban community without taking into account the micro and macro economic consequences of such according to ATIA.
ATIA acknowledges that there are external factors that have negatively influenced the island economy. The
Natalee Holloway affair plays a major role in that according to the association.
Nevertheless government spending is very high for such a small island according to ATIA. The association refers to the large number of people employed by the government. The International Monetary Fund, the World Bank, the Central Bank of Aruba and a number of independent local and international associations have warned the government for employing too many people.
ATIA believes that the measures now effective will have disastrous consequences for the island economy and should be revoked. Aruba will be expensive for its own citizens and more so for tourists. Clothing, jewellery and watches are the most popular products purchased by cruise passengers. It is very likely that they will all buy the products at cheaper islands included in their cruise itinerary according to ATIA.
These people (ATIA) want to dance all around the "real" problem facing this Island. This Island's economy DEPENDED on tourism to the tune of 80%.
You bet the lack of tourist dollars has affected the ENTIRE Island's economy. I hope the first budget to be cut is the government and specifically the UNjustice Department salaries and benefits. CORRUPTION DOES NOT PAY!! They know what the problem is. It is only getting worse. And still, they continue to "dance". Well Aruba, knock yourself out!! The strength of a mother's love for her murdered daughter on YOUR happy little Island, now has YOU by the Jugular. Time to come clean and turn the perps over.