AFTA: Afl. 45 million leaves Aruba through card fees

ORANJESTAD – One of the most significant issues addressed by the Aruba Fair Trade Authority during the first half of 2026 is the high cost associated with debit and credit card payments in Aruba.

According to research published by AFTA, card-payment fees in Aruba are considerably higher than in several other markets. Due in part to the large volume of tourist payments made with foreign-issued cards, the authority estimates that approximately Afl. 45 million leaves Aruba’s economy every year through these charges.

AFTA found that certain interchange fees in Aruba can be six to seven times higher than in markets where such costs are regulated. Those expenses can ultimately be passed from businesses to consumers through higher prices.

The authority has therefore recommended legislation to cap the fees and increase transparency surrounding card-payment costs.

The first half of 2026 also marked an important expansion of AFTA’s role. Since March 15, the authority has been responsible not only for fair competition oversight but also for enforcing consumer-protection rules in Aruba.

These developments fall within the period covered by AFTA’s 2026 half-year reporting, recently presented to Justice Minister Arthur Dowers. The minister stressed the importance of transparency, accountability and good governance.