Country Profile: Sint Maarten
Sint Maarten is a small island in the Caribbean that forms part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. Covering an area of just 34 square kilometers, it features a tropical marine climate and a population of approximately 46,738 as of 2025. The economy is heavily tourism-based, significantly influenced by its history and strategic location. Governance is established as a parliamentary democracy under a constitutional monarchy, providing it with full autonomy in internal affairs since 2010.
Geography
Sint Maarten is located in the northern Leeward Islands of the Caribbean, east of the US Virgin Islands. The island's total area is 34 square kilometers, characterized by low, hilly terrain of volcanic origin. The climate is tropical, with a hurricane season that lasts from July to November, making it prone to natural hazards.
- 58.9 km: Length of the coastline.
- 250 m: Highest point, located southwest of Mount Flagstaff.
- 12 nm: Territorial sea maritime claim.
People and Society
The population of Sint Maarten is approximately 46,738, with a diverse ethnic composition primarily featuring individuals from Saint Maarten, the Dominican Republic, and Haiti. The official language is English, alongside Dutch, and the predominant religions include Protestantism and Roman Catholicism. The society is fully urbanized, with Philipsburg as the most populous area.
- 100%: Urban population as of 2023.
- 40.8 years: Median age of the population in 2025.
- 12 births/1,000 population: Birth rate for 2025.
Economy
Sint Maarten boasts a high-income, tourism-driven economy, which has faced significant challenges due to hurricanes and the COVID-19 pandemic. The island has no property taxation, and its GDP in 2024 is estimated at $1.986 billion. Key industries include tourism and light manufacturing, with a reliance on remittances and re-export activities.
- $1.986 billion: Real GDP (PPP) estimate for 2024.
- 3.5%: Projected GDP growth rate for 2024.
- 89.3%: Services sector contributes to GDP as of 2021.
Government
Sint Maarten is a parliamentary democracy under a constitutional monarchy, with King Willem-Alexander as the chief of state. It operates with full autonomy in internal affairs, while the Dutch government handles defense and foreign relations. The capital city is Philipsburg, serving as the hub for its legislative and executive branches.
- 15: Seats in the unicameral Parliament of Sint Maarten.
- 4 years: Legislative term length for elected officials.
- 18 years: Minimum voting age for suffrage.
Military and Security
Sint Maarten does not maintain regular military forces; instead, security is provided by the Police Force of Sint Maarten (KPSM). Defense responsibilities are supported by the Kingdom of the Netherlands, including the Royal Netherlands Marechaussee and Dutch Caribbean Coast Guard.
- No regular military forces: Civil protection managed by local police.
- KPSM: Main security force on the island.
Energy
All residents of Sint Maarten have access to electricity, which is critical for its tourism-based economy and modern infrastructure.
- 100%: Electrification rate for the population as of 2022.
Environment
Environmental issues affecting Sint Maarten include water scarcity and inadequate waste management. The island's natural beauty and biodiversity are at risk due to pollution and the impact of tourism.
- 10.9%: Percentage of forested land as of 2022.
- 150 cm: Average annual rainfall.
Transportation
Sint Maarten features one airport and two main ports, including the key Coles Bay Oil Terminal. The transportation network facilitates trade and tourism, essential to the island's economy.
- 1: Airport operating as of 2025.
- 2: Total ports available on the island.
Communications
The island has a robust communication infrastructure, with a high rate of mobile cellular subscriptions and internet usage.
- 205 subscriptions: Mobile cellular subscriptions per 100 inhabitants as of 2022.
- 89.5%: Percentage of the population with internet access.
Key Metrics
| Metric | Value | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 46,738 | 2025 estimate |
| Area | 34 sq km | Total area |
| GDP (Purchasing Power Parity) | $1.986 billion | 2024 estimate |
| Birth Rate | 12 births/1,000 | 2025 estimate |
| Life Expectancy | 79.7 years | 2024 estimate |
| Unemployment Rate | Not specified | Data not provided |
| Electrification Access | 100% | Total population, 2022 |
| Urban Population | 100% | 2023 estimate |
| Median Age | 40.8 years | 2025 estimate |
| Dependency Ratio | 52.8 | Total dependency ratio, 2025 |
Explore more about this country: