Fresh produce from the mainland.
WILLEMSTAD–The planned return of six Venezuelan fruit boats and two larger supply vessels to Curaçao on Monday failed to materialise because their paperwork had not yet been completed.
The “Margot” fruit boat did sail into the harbour of Willemstad and moored at Klein Wherf, but regular immigration and customs controls showed the captain lacked the necessary documents. However, the latter were soon taken care of and the fresh produce could be off-loaded.
“A few details still needed to be arranged, which is why only one boat came in,” said Garson Rodriguez of shipping agent Betancourt. “I expect ‘Ashley II’ and ‘Yorgellis’ to arrive on Wednesday.”
It’s for the first time that Venezuelan vessels bringing vegetables and fruit are returning following a month-and-a-half absence due to the trade and travel ban imposed by the neighbouring South American country. On March 2 the last boats had gone back to Vela di Coro.
The borders are now open again after Dutch Minister of Foreign Affairs Stef Blok signed an agreement with the Venezuelan government. The fruit boats must now moor at “Kleine Werf” for the time being as government is still to decide where these will end up.
It is not certain if they will again take up their traditional spot in Punda known as “Floating Market,” since Minister of Economic Affairs Steven Martina has promised this prime location to local artisans and farmers.
The renovation of Sha Caprileskade is still in full swing for local entrepreneurs who will take the place of the Venezuelan vendors and traders.
Source: The Daily Herald https://www.thedailyherald.sx/islands/75764-venezuelan-boats-return-hits-a-snag
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