Sint Maarten
Interview with Luc Mercelina, Prime Minister and Minister of General Affairs, Sint Maarten
Graduating as a doctor from the Medical University of Maastricht in 1990 and going on to work as a surgeon in the Netherlands, Luc Mercelina was elected as the eighth Prime Minister of Sint Maarten in early 2024, and is determined to bring meaningful change to the country. Sint Masrten’s economy now ranks among the strongest in the Caribbean, with GDP growth of 3.5% in 2024.
The Caribbean island boasts a resilient tourism sector, a strategic position between North and South America, and strong ties with the United States, while its economic growth is projected to remain robust.
Can you begin by explaining what makes Sint Maarten such a unique destination?
Sint Maarten is unlike any other place in the Caribbean. We are one island, two nations — half French, half Dutch — but fully united in spirit.
Tourism accounts for the largest share of of the country’s GDP. What explains the recent surge in visitor numbers, and how is that growth benefiting local communities?
Sint Maarten offers visitors an unmatched variety of experiences in a compact space.
Sint Maarten has endured devastating hurricanes in recent decades. What is being done to strengthen resilience and reassure residents, investors, and visitors?
Hurricanes Luis, Irma and Maria left deep marks on our island, but they also taught us invaluable lessons.
Sint Maarten offers a pro-business environment, such as no capital gains tax and strong connectivity to both the U.S. and Latin America. What initiatives are you pursuing to deepen ties, especially with markets like California?
Our airport is one of the Caribbean’s busiest and serves as a vital regional hub.
Your administration introduced incentives in 2025 to counter the brain drain and attract skilled nationals back home. What specific steps are being taken to encourage this return?
Like many developing nations, Sint Maarten faces a brain drain because larger economies can offer higher salaries and broader opportunities.
Finally, what message would you like to share with our readers?
If you haven’t experienced Sint Maarten yet, you’re missing something truly special.