EU Funding Push: The EU is urging Curaçao and other Dutch Caribbean territories to submit projects under its Global Gateway plan, targeting renewable energy, maritime and digital connectivity, and waste management—after an OCT-EU Forum in Aruba. Tourism Strategy Debate: AHATA and Parliament’s Tourism Committee are pressing for a shift from “more visitors” to “better, sustainable tourism,” with calls to manage visitor numbers and protect community life and nature. Protected-Areas Access Risk: Tour operators warn a court fight over the California Lighthouse–Alto Vista route could restrict vehicle access to protected areas, potentially affecting fishermen and residents’ ability to reach coasts and beaches. Consumer Costs Watch: Aruba’s July CPI showed mixed movement: lower gasoline and diesel helped, while several food items rose; electricity and water rates stayed flat. Local Food Production: 297 Farm is expanding with a new 1,500 m² greenhouse for cucumber cultivation, moving from leafy greens into vine crops. Cruise Economy Links: Carnival Horizon’s summer ship visits in Aruba, Bonaire and Curaçao focused on coordination with ports and tourism partners plus student career exposure. Air Connectivity: TUI fly Netherlands plans to replace 737 MAX 8s with 737 MAX 10s in 2027, with the Dutch Caribbean among key markets. Finance Rules: Aruba’s central bank reminds consumers that new limits on consumer-loan costs took effect Aug. 1, 2026.