Brug: More than one-third of St. Maarten residents engage in gambling, study reveals

GREAT BAY--Minister of Public Health, Social Development and Labor (VSA), Hon. Richinel Brug, has revealed the findings of a newly completed national study on gambling behavior and prevalence in St. Maarten, which shows that more than one-third of the population actively participates in gambling.

The study, commissioned by the Ministry of VSA in collaboration with T.W.O and STAT, and conducted by IPSOS, an independent research firm, was recently presented to the Council of Ministers. It offers the first comprehensive look at gambling habits on the island, analyzing patterns by frequency, age group, gender, and educational background.

"What stood out to me was that gambling frequency is particularly high among older male residents and individuals with lower levels of educational attainment," said Minister Brug.

Importantly, the study reveals that approximately 6% of the population fall into the moderate- to high-risk gambling category, placing them at increased risk of financial distress, mental health struggles, and social harm. The Minister emphasized that this finding underscores the urgent need for stronger regulation, oversight, and a robust public health response.

“This data will directly inform our policy direction going forward,” Brug explained. “In close alignment with TEATT’s efforts under the Country Package reforms, we are moving toward the establishment of the St. Maarten Gambling Authority, a modern regulatory body aimed at bringing structure, accountability, and international compliance to the industry.”

Brug added: “Gambling can no longer remain unchecked. It must be managed with structure, responsibility, and public well-being at the forefront.”

The Ministry of VSA will disseminate more details about the study's findings and the policy steps it will take in response. The overarching goal, according to the Minister, is to strike a careful balance between consumer protection and a transparent, well-regulated gaming sector.

In a related message, Minister Brug issued a reminder to individuals receiving monthly government financial assistance to abstain from gambling: “Financial aid is provided to help meet your and your family's basic needs. It is not intended to be used for gambling.”

The survey was conducted from March 26th to April 8th, 2025, and covered a wide range of topics related to gambling, including the types of games played, frequency of participation, and any potential consequences, whether beneficial or harmful, experienced by participants.

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