GRAND CASE:--- A deadly shooting that unfolded around midnight Friday has left a young man dead, and another critically injured in the quiet streets of Grand Case, Saint-Martin. The incident occurred near the intersection of Rue des Écoles and Passage des Écoles, shocking the local community.

The public prosecutor of Basse-Terre, Xavier Sicot, confirmed the tragic loss of life, also revealing that the second victim sustained multiple gunshot wounds. The injured man was quickly transported to the Louis-Constant Fleming Hospital for emergency treatment. However, the authorities have yet to release further information about his current condition.

The gendarmerie has launched two investigations in response to the attack. One inquiry focuses on the fatal shooting, classified as an assassination, while the other addresses the attempted assassination of the surviving victim. Responsibility for the case has been handed over to Saint-Martin’s investigative unit, signaling the gravity of the situation. These investigations aim to uncover the motive and identify those responsible for the violence.

This incident has reignited serious concerns about public safety on the French side of the island, particularly in Grand Case. Known for its vibrant gastronomy scene and rich culture, the district is now grappling with an increasing reputation for violence.

As law enforcement continues their inquiries, those living in and visiting the area remain on high alert. Authorities are expected to provide more updates as their investigations progress.

This latest act of violence serves as a stark reminder of the challenges the community faces in maintaining peace and safety in a region admired for its charm and beauty.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Committee for Agriculture, Fisheries, and Animal Husbandry recently convened to review progress on agriculture-related initiatives for St. Maarten. Minister of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transport, and Telecommunications (TEATT), Ms. Grisha Heyliger-Marten, presented updates on ongoing projects, funding sources, and future plans aimed at strengthening the agriculture sector.

Progress on Agriculture Projects

Several initiatives aimed at improving food security, modernizing farming practices, and enhancing sustainability are moving forward. Some of the notable updates include:

• Food Data Quantification Project is on track for completion by June 2025.
• Poultry and Fishery Sector Assessments are currently underway.
• Hydroponics Education Program completed installations and initial training in April 2025, with community-level training slated for 2026.
• Agri-Loan Program is set to launch in June 2025, offering low-interest loans at 2% to ten farmers and ten fishermen.
• Agriculture Research Project remains in its selection phase.

These projects are expected to pave the way for stronger agricultural productivity and food independence on the island.

Funding Challenges and Opportunities

The Minister underscored the importance of international funding in driving current initiatives, while local funds remain limited. Organizations like the EU Green Overseas Project and the ALF agency have been key contributors, supporting projects such as the hydroponics program (€90,000) and the Agri-loan fund (300,000 guilders).

Looking ahead, the ALF agency, geared to oversee agricultural development, is actively seeking $600,000 in startup funding through international partnerships like TWAO (Temporary Work Agreements Overseas).

Challenges Facing the Agriculture Sector

Despite measurable progress, several roadblocks remain. Key challenges include:

1. Limited Funding - No dedicated budget for 2026 agriculture initiatives further compounds financial pressures.
2. Personnel Shortages - The ministry lacks the workforce and resources necessary to fully support agriculture-focused policies, making staff recruitment and relocation a priority.
3. Disaster Management Deficiencies - The absence of contingency plans for agricultural resilience in disasters poses significant risks.

Future Plans and Goals

Minister Heyliger-Marten laid out an ambitious vision for the agriculture sector, centered around the ALF policy. By stabilizing and expanding the sector, the Ministry aims to establish an independent ALF agency by Q4 2026. The agency will focus on the execution of agriculture initiatives, while the Ministry remains responsible for policy development.

Upcoming plans include creating seedling centers, expanding hydroponics programs, reviving agricultural schools, and launching poultry farming training programs. Additionally, cross-island collaboration through the DC Alpha platform will strengthen regional trade and shipping partnerships.

Discussions Among MPs

Members of Parliament (MPs) played an active role in providing insights and raising critical questions about the pathway forward. MP Lacroes called for stronger regional licensing agreements for fishermen, while MP Veronica Janssen Webster commended the progress in the hydroponics program and stressed the importance of local farmers engaging in international exposure.

MP Sarah Westcott-Williams voiced concerns about the feasibility of using a ZBO (Independent Administrative Body) to execute ALF policies, emphasizing the need for interim measures. Meanwhile, MP Darrly York sought clarity on budget timelines and land allocation for farmers in collaboration with the Ministry of Spatial Planning and Infrastructure.

The issue of invasive species, particularly monkeys, was also discussed. Proposed strategies included electronic fencing and licensed culling to address the growing problem.

Minister’s Closing Remarks

Minister Heyliger-Marten concluded the meeting with a call for unity and cooperation across all stakeholders. She promised transparency and regular updates on agricultural progress, emphasizing the pivotal role of collaboration between government, Parliament, and international partners in driving success.

Next Steps

Several immediate action points emerged from the meeting, including providing MPs with a detailed breakdown of international funding and its allocations. The setup of the ALF agency remains a central focus, with Parliament closely monitoring developments and providing legislative support as needed.

The ambitious roadmap presented by the Ministry signals a promising future for St. Maarten’s agriculture sector, positioning it as a pillar of sustainability and self-reliance for the island.

PHILIPSBURG:---  Following the arrest of three suspects earlier today in connection with the armed robbery at a jewelry store on Front Street, detectives from the Sint Maarten Police Force (KPSM) conducted a house search at the location where the suspects were apprehended in the Dutch Quarter area.

During the search, officers confiscated the getaway vehicle, a quantity of stolen jewelry, and a firearm believed to have been used in the robbery.

All three suspects remain in custody at the Philipsburg Police Station as the investigation continues.

KPSM commends its officers for their swift and professional response during this operation.

KPSM Press Release.

MIAMI, Fla.:---  The Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA) shared powerful insights following its participation in the Americas Lodging Investment Summit Caribbean & Latin America (ALIS CALA), underscoring a cautiously optimistic outlook for tourism investment in the region, despite global headwinds and rising costs.

With more than 550 attendees representing 35 countries, ALIS CALA brought together investors, developers, government leaders, and hospitality executives for three days of dialogue, networking, and strategic planning.  The summit kicked off with an ALIS CALA- and CHTA-led Investor Sentiment Poll—fielded among 89 participants— which revealed:

• 81 percent rated the current climate for tourism-related investment in CALA as "Good" or "Robust"

• 70 percent anticipate construction and renovation costs will increase by more than 10 percent over the next year

• Luxury properties emerged as the most attractive investment segment, chosen by 45 percent of respondents

• While funding is available, 82 percent noted it is more expensive than in previous years

In addition to this pulse survey, CHTA conducted a similar sentiment index amongst its members, the results of which closely mirrored the ALIS CALA survey. However, preliminary findings from CHTA’s Interim Economic Outlook Survey also suggest caution, with emerging signs of weakened short-term confidence.

“The Caribbean continues to prove itself as one of the most resilient tourism markets in the world,” shared CHTA President Sanovnik Destang. “While cost pressures and global uncertainty are real, investor appetite remains strong, and we are seeing bold new developments in sustainable, community-focused tourism across the region.”

Key Trends and Insights:

• Resilience Amid Volatility: As destinations navigate high operating costs, supply chain disruptions, and inflation, the Caribbean’s tourism-dependent economies are adapting with increased airlift, targeted diversification strategies, and innovation in hospitality experiences—from wellness to branded residences and full-circle culinary programs.

• Data-Driven Optimism:Hotel performance across much of the Caribbean is outpacing pre-pandemic levels, fueled by strong demand and travelers’ willingness to invest in meaningful experiences. Boutique, experiential, and eco-luxury offerings are seeing particularly high interest.

• Broadening Market Reach:While the U.S. remains the primary source market, CHTA emphasizes the growing importance of Canada, Latin America, and intra-Caribbean travel. Calls to reduce taxes on regional flights and increase inter-island connectivity are gaining momentum; Saint Lucia and Barbados are leading by example, cutting taxes on regional airfare by 50% for the summer of 2025.

• Community and Sustainability Focus:Developers are incorporating into partnerships that prioritize local impact, from hiring biologists to protect ecosystems, to including local chefs and artists in the guest experience. Investors are increasingly prioritizing destinations with strong sustainability narratives.

• Technology and AI Transformation:The conference spotlighted AI as a hospitality equalizer—automating operations while freeing staff to enhance guest experiences. During a panel discussion, Destang also encouraged the upskilling of the Caribbean workforce to stay competitive in an AI-driven future.

A United Voice for the Region

CHTA reaffirmed its role as a regional advocate, citing its recent efforts that helped avert costly U.S. port fees and its ongoing collaboration with the CARICOM Private Sector Organization, regional shipping partners, and tourism stakeholders to reduce external dependencies and enhance trade routes. Additionally, CHTA played a key role in a tax advocacy effort in the Dominican Republic, helping to preserve essential tourism-related incentives that were at risk due to proposed tax reforms—safeguarding continued investment and growth within one of the Caribbean’s most vital tourism markets.

“The Caribbean is not just a destination—it’s a brand,” said Destang. “But each island tells its own story. We must continue to amplify those narratives through smart investment, thoughtful development, and unified advocacy.”

As the region looks ahead into 2025 and beyond, CHTA will continue to support its 32 member destinations with insights, partnerships, and a relentless focus on resilience, innovation, and inclusive growth. These critical conversations and collaborations will continue later this month in Antigua at the 2025 Caribbean Travel Forum and Caribbean Travel Marketplace, where CHTA will unveil further insights and strategies shaping the future of Caribbean tourism. Registration is still available for each event at the following links: https://caribbeantravelforum.com and https://chtamarketplace.com. More detailed insights will be shared through the CHTA members portal in the coming weeks