The Ministry of TEATT, through its Department of Economic Affairs, Transport, and Telecommunications (ETT), successfully hosted the first Agriculture, Livestock, and Fisheries (ALF) Expo in Sint Maarten on Thursday, December 11, 2025, at the University of Sint Maarten.
The Expo attracted a large and diverse audience, including entrepreneurs, educators, agricultural experts, investors, and families, all eager to explore opportunities in this emerging sector.
What began as a policy approved in 2022 has now grown into a clearly organized national movement, demonstrating that the country is ready to pursue food security and economic diversification with intent.
Presentations: Leading Change in Sint Maarten’s ALF Sector
The Expo featured strong presentations from sector leaders, including:
· Shervin Frederick, Interim Head of Department (ETT) – Sector overview and ALF Expo 2025 status
· Wendy Jack, Policy Advisor – Presentation on the current and future state of the fisheries sector in Sint Maarten
· Sabrina Brismeur, Nature Foundation – Environmental and sustainable perspectives on fisheries
· Vanessa Mattew, Policy Advisor (ETT) – Progress of the Hydro-technical Program in schools
· Ajit Persaud, Coordinator of the Hydroponics Program for Catholic schools
· Rose Poraan-Fleming, Senior Policy Advisor (ETT) – Development of a sustainable poultry industry for the island
One of the most important moments of the evening was the update from Ajit Persaud and colleagues, sharing the success of hydroponics in schools, made possible through the Green Overseas Train-the-Trainer Program.
A Movement is Forming: More to Come
Interim Head of Department, Shervin Frederick, concluded:
“This has taken time, and based on public attendance, we can clearly see interest in learning more and exploring what this industry can offer. This is only the beginning. The Department, the Ministry, and our partners will continue working to ensure that ALF becomes a true pillar of economic diversification for Sint Maarten.”
