The Minister of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Traffic, and Telecommunications, Grisha Heyliger Marten, has officially appointed the Sint Maarten Tourism Authority Foundation (STAF) to lead the establishment of the Sint Maarten Tourism Authority (STA) as an independent public body. The appointment takes effect on March 1, marking an important step toward modernizing the country’s tourism governance structure.
This announcement follows the recent Economic Stakeholder Consultation, where businesses, workers, and community representatives expressed the need for a more coordinated, data-driven, and forward-looking approach to tourism development. The Minister emphasized that the government is responding directly to concerns about traffic congestion, infrastructure pressure, and the risks associated with poorly managed mass tourism.
“This is the moment to redefine the future of tourism in Sint Maarten,” said Minister Heyliger Marten. “We are moving toward a smarter and more sustainable model that protects our quality of life, strengthens our economy, and ensures tourism works for our people.”
The STA will operate as an independent, professionally managed entity responsible for:
- Strengthening destination compatibility
- Improving visitor management
- Coordinating tourism product development
- Supporting local business growth
The Minister stressed that the goal is not mass tourism, but rather a high-value tourism economy that benefits both residents and visitors equally.
Leadership Appointments
Two Interim Directors have been appointed to ensure a balanced and effective approach:
- Mr. James Hepple, an internationally recognized tourism strategist with decades of experience advising Caribbean destinations including Aruba and Curaçao. His expertise in tourism analytics, policy development, and long-term planning provides the technical depth needed for national development.
- Ms. Cherinah Franken, a respected local tourism professional and current Head of Product Development at the St. Maarten Tourism Bureau, brings local knowledge, institutional expertise, and strong stakeholder relationships.
Together, they provide a strategic combination of international expertise and local leadership, ensuring the process aligns with global best practices while staying grounded in Sint Maarten’s tourism economy.
Tourism Masterplan
A new Tourism Masterplan will be developed—the first update since 2005. This data-driven, inclusive, and sustainability-aligned plan will serve as a blueprint for the next generation of tourism development on the island.
Stakeholder Engagement
STAF will hold extensive engagement sessions with stakeholders over the coming months, including:
- Large hotels and resorts
- Small properties, guesthouses, and boutique accommodations
- Restaurants, tour operators, and activity providers
- Transport and port partners
- Timeshare associations
- Community groups and civil society
- Tourism workers and unions
“The future of tourism cannot be written by the government alone,” said the Minister. “Small businesses, large hotels, tour operators, workers, and the community all play a vital role. This is a people-driven process.”
The government has committed to transparency throughout the process and will provide updates as milestones are achieved.
“We are building a tourism economy that opens doors for our people, empowers small businesses, and protects the system our island depends on,” said Minister Heyliger Marten. “Progress will come from government, industry, and community working together.”
The establishment of the STA marks the beginning of a new era for Sint Maarten, defined by smarter planning, stronger governance, and a sustainable vision for the future.