Dear Valued Members,
The Island continues to face many challenges with the lingering effects of the global financial crisis, unrest in the Middle-East and above all, locally, due to the still unstable government of our young country St. Maarten, inconsistent policies and reductions to our tourism promotional budget.
The SHTA continues its advocacy efforts, stressing that keen attention be paid to:
- Removing bureaucratic red tape, improving efficiency and customer service, to reduce the fiscal burden by increasing compliance and reducing the rate.
- The application of the macro-economic model for strategic long term planning.
- Establishing and giving weight to structured Public-Private memberships.
- Improving the overall economic situation for St. Maarten.
In recent years, we have seen significant changes, indeed improvements to a degree in which the private sector is being involved in the development of our Nation. As the largest, employer organization, Board
Members of the SHTA represent the interest of business in the following committees:
- Social Economic Council
- Labor Tripartite Committee
- Economic Monitoring Committee
After 15 plus years of effort, we are sad to report that the St. Maarten Tourism Authority is still elusive. We believe the establishment of this entity is crucial for making the most effective use of our limited funds for the marketing of our product, St. Maarten. The SHTA is also dismayed by the unsuccessful, as yet, completion of the Tourism Statistical Information System (TSIS), again after coming so close and having the funds made available it is a shame that it could not be realized.
Of late, the statistical data continues to show positive indications of recovery, increasing visitor traffic, higher occupancy rates, record cruise passenger arrivals and an improved yachting season.
The SHTA is dedicated to making to making St. Maarten a better place to live, work and play in, because
we believe that any great place to live is a great place to visit.
We truly appreciate your commitment to SHTA and promise that the board will continue to work hard to
represent your interests, to the best of our ability.
On behalf of the board,
Yours sincerely,
Emil Lee
President
Sint Maarten Hospitality & Trade Association
The Annual Report reflects the activities performed by SHTA along with accomplishments achieved during the 2012-2013 association year.
