Ministry of TEATT’s Strategic Economic Stakeholders Consultation Opens Today

GREAT BAY--The Ministry of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transport and Telecommunication (TEATT) officially commenced the Strategic Economic Stakeholders Consultation, taking place February 2 to 6, 2026. The consultation brings together a compact, high-impact group of regional experts, local leaders, and policymakers to initiate St. Maarten’s next phase of economic planning.

This week’s consultation is supported by a group of speakers and contributors with experience in economic transformation, tourism development, climate resilience, innovation, and governance, including:

Jim Hepple, known for advisory work supporting Aruba’s tourism development and strategic positioning, with a focus on sustainable destination management.

Vincent Wallace, a tourism professional who has contributed to The Bahamas’ tourism sector through senior leadership and policy-driven roles.

Tadzio Bervoets, recognized for work in climate action, environmental protection, and sustainable development within small-island contexts.

Emily Lee, former Minister of VSA, hotelier, and entrepreneur, bringing insight across public policy, private enterprise, and hospitality operations.

Gregory Richardson, known for work in artificial intelligence, digital transformation, and innovation ecosystems, with relevance for public and private sector reform.

Together with the on-island expert team, these contributors are supporting a working-session approach designed to move from dialogue to direction.

Minister of TEATT Grisha S. Heyliger-Marten emphasized that the consultation is intended to be focused and foundational. She stated that the purpose is to set direction, identify priorities, and establish a strong base for the Strategic Economic Development Plan that will follow. She also noted that stakeholder engagement does not end with this week, but expands beyond it.

The Ministry stressed that stakeholders who are unable to participate throughout the week will not be excluded from the process. As the Strategic Economic Development Plan is drafted with support from the expert team, additional outreach and targeted engagement will take place to ensure broad input, validation, and alignment.

The consultation marks the start of a longer, structured process that prioritizes coordination and implementation as St. Maarten charts its economic future.

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