Country Profile: Saint Martin
Saint Martin is a unique Caribbean island located in the Leeward Islands, divided between French and Dutch territories. It boasts a population of approximately 32,996, with a vibrant mix of ethnicities and cultures. The economy is heavily reliant on tourism, which suffered significant setbacks from Hurricane Irma in 2017 and the COVID-19 pandemic. Governed as an overseas collectivity of France, the island has a parliamentary democracy and enjoys a high standard of living.
Geography
Saint Martin lies in the Caribbean Sea, east of the US Virgin Islands, featuring a total area of 50 square kilometers. It has a mixed terrain, with a coastline of 58.9 km and a highest point at 424 meters. The climate is characterized by warm temperatures year-round and a hurricane season from July to November. Additionally, the island experiences low humidity and gentle trade winds.
- 50 sq km total area
- 58.9 km coastline
- 424 m highest point (Pic du Paradis)
- 0% agricultural land (2022 est.)
- 75.2% land classified as other (2022 est.)
- 24.8% forested area (2022 est.)
- 16 km land boundary shared with Sint Maarten
People and Society
Saint Martin's population is diverse, comprised of Creole, Black, White, East Indian, and other ethnic groups, with French as the official language. The island has a balanced age structure, with a median age of 34.2 years and a birth rate of 13.9 births per 1,000 population. The population is primarily Roman Catholic, along with a significant presence of other religious groups, including Jehovah's Witnesses and Hindus.
- 32,996 total population (2024 est.)
- 64.5% of the population aged 15-64 years
- 81 years life expectancy at birth (2024 est.)
- 1.8 children born per woman (2024 est.)
- 0.3% population growth rate (2024 est.)
- 6.5 deaths/1,000 live births infant mortality rate (2024 est.)
- 100% urban access to improved drinking water and sanitation facilities
Economy
Saint Martin’s economy is classified as high-income and heavily relies on tourism, which was drastically impacted by Hurricane Irma and the COVID-19 pandemic. Economic activities also include light and heavy industries and offshore banking. Import dependency is significant, with a duty-free status enhancing its appeal as a yachting destination.
- $649.206 million GDP (2021 est.)
- 4.9% GDP growth rate (2021 est.)
- 35% of exports directed to the United States (2019)
- 76% of imports sourced from the United States (2019)
- 0.924 euros per US dollar exchange rate (2024 est.)
- 15,480 tons of municipal solid waste generated annually (2012 est.)
- 100% access to electricity (2022 est.)
Government
Saint Martin is an overseas collectivity of France governed by a parliamentary democracy. The capital is Marigot, and the island operates under French civil law. The local governance structure includes a Territorial Council with elections held every five years. The head of government is supported by a French-appointed prefect.
- Rassemblement Saint-Martinois (RSM) holds majority in the Territorial Council
- 23 seats in the unicameral Territorial Council
- 18 years of age for universal suffrage
- 3 April 2022 most recent election date
- Louis Mussington has served as the head of government since 3 April 2022
- 100% of the population eligible for improved sanitation facilities
- Fête de la Fédération celebrated on 14 July
Military and Security
Saint Martin does not maintain regular military forces; security is managed by police forces associated with Sint Maarten. The defense of the island is the responsibility of France, ensuring cooperation in matters of national security.
- No regular military forces present
- Police Force of Sint Maarten is responsible for local law enforcement
- Defense managed by France
Energy
The entire population of Saint Martin has access to electricity, demonstrating a robust energy infrastructure supporting residential and commercial needs, crucial for its tourism-driven economy.
- 100% electrification rate (2022 est.)
Environment
The environmental concerns of Saint Martin include waste management and limited freshwater resources. The island faces challenges such as salinity intrusions and over-exploitation of marine resources. Climate change impacts and pollution threaten its rich marine biodiversity.
- 15,480 tons of municipal solid waste generated annually (2012 est.)
- 24.8% forested area (2022 est.)
- 0% agricultural land (2022 est.)
Transportation
Saint Martin is served by one airport, facilitating travel and tourism, vital to its economy.
- 1 airport operational (2025)
Communications
Saint Martin has a growing communications infrastructure with a significant percentage of the population using the internet. Access to mobile services and broadcasts contributes to connectivity and information dissemination.
- 68,840 mobile cellular subscriptions (2012 est.)
- 48.5% internet usage rate (2022 est.)
- Access to 1 local TV station and about 20 radio stations
Key Metrics
| Metric | Value | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 32,996 | 2024 estimate |
| Area | 50 sq km | |
| GDP | $649.206 million | 2021 estimate |
| Electricity Access | 100% | 2022 estimate |
| Birth Rate | 13.9 births/1,000 | 2024 estimate |
| Life Expectancy | 81 years | 2024 estimate |
| Real GDP Growth Rate | 4.9% | 2021 estimate |
| Infant Mortality Rate | 6.5 deaths/1,000 | 2024 estimate |
| Unemployment Rate | N/A | Data not provided |
| Land Use - Agricultural | 0% | 2022 estimate |
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