Tourism Strategy: Minister Wendrick Cicilia met with Aruba Tourism Authority leadership to map the 2027 tourism budget and projects, focusing on implementation of a national tourism policy and strengthening Aruba’s economy through better tourism management. Aviation Tax Watch: The Dutch Council of State questioned the Netherlands’ proposed distance-based aviation tax that would keep Aruba and other Kingdom islands in the lowest rate, raising legal concerns about taxing neighboring destinations differently. Fuel Costs: Aruba confirmed a sharp rise in retail fuel prices from Aug. 12, with premium unleaded up 25.1 cents to 290.9 cents per liter, adding pressure to household budgets. Rehabilitation Care: Horacio Oduber Hospital director Jacco Vroegop says Aruba still lacks a complete multidisciplinary rehabilitation facility, warning that without it more patients may need treatment abroad. Local Business & Trade: Aruba will join HUB Cámara Santo Domingo 2026 on Sept. 9-10 to expand commercial ties with the Dominican Republic and diversify import sources. Tourism Signals: Bonaire reported 15,984 stayover visitors in July 2026 (down 4% year-on-year), with the Netherlands the largest source market. Community Support: Centro di Bario Noord and the Aruba Red Cross plan two days of reusable clothing distribution in Noord ahead of the new school year. Cruise Economy: Margaritaville at Sea adjusted a Southern Caribbean sailing, shifting its Aruba call to Sept. 9, 2026 (2:00 PM-11:00 PM).