Country Profile: Saint Martin
Saint Martin is a Caribbean island located in the Leeward Islands, divided between the French and Dutch territories, with a population of approximately 33,000. The economy is heavily reliant on tourism, which has faced challenges due to natural disasters and global events like the COVID-19 pandemic. Governed as a parliamentary democracy and an overseas collectivity of France, Saint Martin features a rich cultural tapestry influenced by various ethnic groups and languages.
Geography
Saint Martin is situated in the Caribbean Sea, east of the US Virgin Islands, encompassing an area of 50 square kilometers. The island shares its land border with Sint Maarten, making it unique as the smallest landmass in the world occupied by two self-governing states. The terrain includes the highest point of Pic du Paradis at 424 meters and a coastline extending 58.9 kilometers.
- 58.9 km of coastline.
- 16 km land border with Sint Maarten.
- 27-29 degrees Celsius average temperature year-round.
People and Society
With an estimated population of 33,093 in 2025, Saint Martin boasts a diverse demographic, including Creole, Black, White, and other ethnicities. The official language is French, but Dutch and English are also widely spoken. The population's age structure indicates a median age of 34.3 years, with a significant percentage of young people aged 0-14.
- 81 years life expectancy at birth (2024 est.).
- 13.78 births/1,000 population birth rate (2025 est.).
- 100% of the population has access to improved sanitation facilities.
Economy
Saint Martin has a high-income economy primarily based on tourism, which suffered severe setbacks from Hurricane Irma in 2017 and the COVID-19 pandemic. The GDP was estimated at approximately $649 million in 2021, and the island also engages in light manufacturing and offshore banking. Its duty-free commerce and yachting destination status further contribute to its economic profile.
- 4.9% GDP growth in 2021 (est.).
- -12.5% GDP contraction in 2020 (est.).
- 35% of exports go to the United States (2019).
Government
Saint Martin operates under a parliamentary democracy as an overseas collectivity of France, with a capital in Marigot. The local government is led by the President of the Territorial Council, currently Louis Mussington, and the island follows French civil law. Citizens enjoy universal suffrage at the age of 18.
- 23 members in the Territorial Council.
- 100% of the population can vote in elections.
- National holiday on 14 July (Fête de la Fédération).
Military and Security
Saint Martin does not maintain regular military forces, with defense responsibilities falling under France. The local police force operates under the Ministry of Justice, ensuring security on the island.
- No regular military forces present.
- Defense is the responsibility of France.
Energy
Electricity access is virtually universal, with 100% of the population connected as of 2022, reflecting a well-structured energy sector on the island.
- 100% electrification rate (2022 est.).
Environment
Saint Martin faces various environmental challenges including waste management, salinity intrusions, and over-exploitation of marine resources. The climate is characterized by a warm temperature, with a hurricane season running from July to November.
- 15,500 tons of municipal solid waste generated annually (2024 est.).
- 24.8% of land designated as forest (2022 est.).
Transportation
The island has a single airport facilitating air travel. Its transport infrastructure supports the tourism-dependent economy.
- 1 airport operational as of 2025.
Communications
Saint Martin is equipped with a variety of communication channels, including access to multiple radio stations and local television. Approximately 48.5% of the population is estimated to use the internet.
- 68,840 mobile cellular subscriptions (2012 est.).
- 48.5% internet user rate (2022 est.).
Key Metrics
| Metric | Value | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 33,093 (2025 est.) | |
| Area | 50 sq km | |
| GDP | $649.206 million (2021) | |
| Energy Consumption | 100% electrification | Total population (2022 est.) |
| Birth Rate | 13.78 births/1,000 | Population (2025 est.) |
| Life Expectancy | 81 years (2024 est.) | |
| Unemployment Rate | Not available |
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