Tourism Crisis in Sint Maarten—Can the Island’s Economy Recover?

The Economic Impact of Tourism on Sint Maarten’s GDP

 View research paper here

Tourism is the lifeblood of Sint Maarten’s economy, but global crises and travel restrictions have exposed the island’s vulnerability. This research dives into the economic dependency on tourism and the challenges Sint Maarten faces in diversifying its economy for long-term sustainability.

Key Insights:

• Tourism-Driven Economy: Tourism contributes over 80% to Sint Maarten’s GDP, making the island heavily reliant on international visitors. "Our entire economy revolves around tourism," says one local business owner.

• COVID-19 Impact: The pandemic led to a 30% drop in tourist arrivals, causing severe economic shocks. Local businesses reported losses of $150 million in 2020 alone.

• Diversification Urgency: The research emphasizes the need to diversify the economy beyond tourism.

"We need new industries to ensure our future," warns an economic analyst."

Why This Matters Now

Sint Maarten’s over-reliance on tourism leaves it vulnerable to future global crises. Immediate efforts to diversify the economy are essential to create long-term stability.

For more information on tourism and economic resilience, visit UNWTO’s Tourism