The primary function of the Department is to “formulate, implement, monitor and evaluate the socio-economic policies of the Island Territory of St. Maarten with the ultimate purpose of stimulating economic growth and development”.
As an island nation whose economy is based on one industry - tourism - it is of the utmost importance that every visitor - either virtual or real -- to St. Maarten has a positive and memorable experience. An experience that leaves you wanting more as you browse the web, just as you might want one or two days more at the end of your vacation stay.
Investments in the Dr. A.C. Wathey Cruise & Cargo Facility has also played a critical role in the economic growth of the island in recent years. The new harbour extension project is expected to generate new business in both the cruise and cargo segments
The overall performance of the tourism industry in St. Maarten has been maintained despite the natural and non-natural occurrences (hurricanes and September 11th,) that affected the economy here on the island. In 2007, St. Maarten welcomed 469,407 stay-over tourists, while visitor arrivals in the buoyant cruise sector was sustained at 1.4 million.
Furthermore, the island continues to gain popularity within the marine sector with sustained growth in the number of mega yachts visiting in 2007, a total of over 1100 yachts.
