Tourism is the largest contributor to Bonaire’s economy and generates approximately half of Bonaire’s gross domestic product (GDP) and employment. There are an estimated 7,200 tourism-dependent jobs on Bonaire. Moreover, the Visitor Entry Tax accounts for 44 percent of local tax revenues.

These are the results of a study by Economic Bureau Amsterdam into the economic impact of tourism on Bonaire. The estimates include both direct and indirect tourism expenditure. Direct expenditure consists of spending by stayover and cruise tourists, airport and port fees and services, and tourist tax. Indirect expenditure consists of the supplies to the businesses that directly provide services to tourists.

Tourism on Bonaire has negative environmental and social effects as well. It is key that the development of tourism does not come at the expense of Bonaire’s nature and unique culture. These characteristics play an important role in attracting tourists to the island.

Tourism is not the only economic pillar of Bonaire’s economy, since the public sector (public administration, education, and healthcare) drives GDP and employment as well. Development of agriculture, the blue economy – where marine resources are sustainably used – and the financial sector are other promising pathways for diversification in the future.