Willemstad/Philipsburg:--- On March 31, 2026, the Centrale Bank van Curaçao en Sint Maarten (CBCS) decided to maintain its monetary policy stance unchanged. This decision reflects a cautious approach in response to heightened uncertainty surrounding the potential spillover effects of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East on commodity and financial markets, and the resulting impact on the monetary union. This stance is also consistent with the U.S. Federal Reserve’s decision (Fed) in March to keep the target range for the federal funds rate unchanged. In the current environment of heightened uncertainty, the CBCS will continue to monitor domestic and international economic developments closely and stands ready to adjust its monetary policy as needed.
Despite heightened uncertainties and volatility in the global environment, gross official reserves have continued to increase in 2026, after rising substantially by Cg 402.2 million in 2025. Up to March 13, 2026, gross official reserves have increased by Cg. 102.2 million, bringing the import coverage to a comfortable 5.3 months. The external position is expected to remain solid by year-end, with reserves projected to increase by Cg 161.8 million and the average import coverage reaching 5.2 months, well above the norm of 3 months. Nevertheless, the ongoing conflict in the Middle East poses a potential risk to the outlook.
In particular, a prolonged effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical maritime chokepoints, will affect global energy supply and trade flows, leading to higher oil prices and increased freight, insurance, and transportation costs. For the monetary union, such developments could translate into higher inflation and lower purchasing power, increased travel costs, and a deterioration in tourism demand. At the same time, heightened uncertainty may weigh on investor sentiment, leading to more cautious investment behavior and slower economic growth.
In a scenario where the Strait of Hormuz is effectively closed for three months, annual average oil prices could rise to USD 100 in 2026, before easing to USD 85 in 2027. In this case, the external position of the monetary union would weaken, with the current account deficit of the balance of payments widening to 12.9% of GDP, compared to 7.2% under normal conditions. Gross official reserves would decline by Cg 74.7 million, instead of increasing by Cg 161.8 million, while the import coverage would fall to 4.4 months, compared to 5.2 months under normal conditions.
In a more severe scenario involving a six-month disruption, oil prices could average around USD 150 in 2026 and ease to USD 135 in 2027. In this case, the impact on the external position of the monetary union would be more pronounced, with the current account deficit reaching 17.1% of GDP, gross official reserves declining by Cg 246.8 million, and the import coverage falling to 3.8 months.
While the monetary union maintains a solid foreign-exchange position, risks are tilted toward the downside. In addition to developments in the Middle East, other geopolitical tensions, including the war in Ukraine and developments involving Venezuela and the United States, continue to contribute to global uncertainty. Furthermore, uncertainty surrounding global trade policies, particularly U.S. tariff measures, may affect trade relations, increase policy unpredictability, and weigh on investment and economic activity.
Taking these developments into consideration, the CBCS has maintained its monetary policy stance in line with the Fed. On March 18, 2025, the Fed maintained its target range for the federal funds rate unchanged at 3.50-3.75%, reflecting still-elevated inflation and increased uncertainty surrounding the economic outlook. Against this backdrop, the CBCS decided to keep its pledging rate unchanged at 4.25%, maintaining a 50 basis point spread above the federal funds rate.
At the same time, the CBCS has kept the reserve requirement percentage unchanged at 18.50%. It will also continue to offer attractive rates on its weekly auctions of certificates of deposit (CDs), with the aim of holding more bank liquidity domestically, and thereby safeguarding the monetary union’s foreign exchange position. These policy decisions are supported by the monetary union’s solid foreign-exchange position and a prudent, forward-looking approach amid an uncertain global environment.
Willemstad, April 1, 2026
CENTRALE BANK VAN CURACAO EN SINT MAARTEN
CPS: You’re Invited to a World Health Day Activity on April 7.
PHILIPSBURG (DCOMM):--- The Collective Prevention Service (CPS) is encouraging everyone to participate in its “The Lifestyle Shift Campaign,” which will take place on Tuesday, April 7, World Health Day (WHD).
It will be a healthy and engaging afternoon of group fitness activities starting at 4:30 pm to 6:30 pm at the Vineyard Office Building, W.G. Buncamper Rd. #33 parking lot at the head of town. A number of vendors will also be on-site with wellness information/lifestyle tips, products, services, healthy snacks and hydration.
Participants can get additional information by emailing: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call +1 721 542-1570.
Participants will also have the opportunity to partake in a free health screening session that covers glucose, blood sugar, cholesterol, and blood pressure.
Be there to experience the shift you've always wanted. Gain firsthand exercise tips and health information that you can apply to your daily routine.
World Health Day 2025 will be observed on Tuesday, April 7th under the theme “Together for health. Stand with science.”
#KnowYourNumbers #yourhealthmatters #YourHealthIsOurPriority #WHD2026
Fire department calls on community to be safe this Easter holiday weekend.
PHILIPSBURG (DCOMM):--- The Fire Department is calling on the community to be safe this Easter holiday weekend that kicks off from Friday, April 3rd until and including Monday, April 6th.
Many people will be heading to the beach for various watersports activities and having a funday with family and friends. Safety should always be a concern.
Keep a watchful eye on young children whether they can or cannot swim; make sure that their flotation devices are in proper working condition. Tragic water events can happen quickly.
Pay attention to senior family members who are swimming. The beach can be fun and an enjoyable experience, so it’s up to you to stay safe.
Watch out for strong water currents. Stay in shallow water.
Exercise safe cooking practices in the kitchen to prevent kitchen fires and burn injuries. While at the beach barbecuing, pay keen attention that young children are not close by.
After a successful BBQ, don’t forget to clean up all utensils, bottles, cans, paper plates, napkins and plastic cups from your family/friend Easter holiday beach experience and properly dispose of them in a garbage bin. Once coals have been completely extinguished, remove them so the beach environment is returned to its original state.
Keep matches and lighters out of the reach of children this Easter holiday weekend.
The Fire Department wishes all a safe and happy Easter holiday weekend.
The Fire Department falls under the Ministry of General Affairs.
In the event of a fire emergency, call 919.
PJIAE Hosts First Glow-In-The-Dark Egg Hunt For Employees.
Simpson Bay:--- Princess Juliana International Airport (PJIA) hosted its very first Glow-in-the-Dark Egg Hunt on Saturday evening, bringing together airport employees for a unique and festive Easter celebration on the runway.
With Easter right around the corner, Princess Juliana International Airport (PJIAE) is embracing the festive spirit with activities for both the community and its employees. In celebration of the season, a large Easter Bunny has been placed outside the terminal, inviting the community to stop by and capture memorable photos. In the evenings, the installation lights up, creating an even more vibrant and picture-perfect moment for visitors.
As part of the internal celebrations, PJIAE hosted its very first “Glow-in-the-Dark Egg Hunt” on Saturday evening, held outdoors on the airport’s runway. Organized by the internal event committee, the event brought together employees in a fun and unique setting, encouraging team bonding and a shared sense of community.
The evening was filled with excitement, laughter, and friendly competition, as colleagues enjoyed a creative twist on a classic Easter tradition.
“Creating moments like these allows us to connect beyond the workplace and celebrate together as one team,” said Bermyle Davis, HR People Operations Officer and organizer of the event. “It was truly rewarding to see everyone come together and enjoy such a special experience.”
PJIAE remains committed to fostering a positive and engaging work environment, while also creating moments that connect with the wider community. We would like to wish everyone a joyful Easter filled with happiness, quality time, and meaningful moments with family and loved ones, just as we celebrated with our airport family.
Parliament Moves to Oust VROMI Minister Amid Mounting Public Frustration.
PHILIPSBURG:--- Tensions ran high in Parliament on Wednesday as Member of Parliament Lyndon Lewis formally tabled a Motion of No Confidence against the Minister of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure (VROMI), Patrice Gumbs, citing widespread failures in leadership, governance, and the execution of critical national responsibilities.
The motion, presented during a parliamentary meeting, paints a grim picture of a ministry plagued by inaction, weak enforcement, and deteriorating public conditions nationwide.
“Beautiful Presentation, But a Failing Reality”
In a strongly worded address, the MP Lewis criticized the Minister Patrice Gumbs Jr.'s performance, stating that while the Ministry demonstrated awareness of its shortcomings, it had failed to take meaningful action.
“The only thing I gather is that the Minister knows what is going wrong, yet the laws are not being enforced, and even the bare minimum is not being executed,” the MP declared.
The speech highlighted the stark contrast between polished presentations delivered in Parliament and the conditions faced daily by citizens—unsafe roads, uncollected garbage, and neglected neighborhoods.
Public Funds Under Scrutiny
A particularly contentious issue raised was the continued payment of two senior civil servants who remain at home while still receiving full salaries. According to the MP, these individuals hold pivotal roles within the Ministry of VROMI, raising serious concerns about accountability and misuse of public funds.
“This is at the expense of the people,” the MP emphasized, calling the situation “unacceptable.”
Infrastructure and Environmental Concerns
The motion underscores longstanding complaints about deteriorating infrastructure, including:
- Poor road conditions across the island
- Abandoned and wrecked vehicles along major routes such as Zagersgut Road, Bush Road, and Pond Island
- Ineffective waste management leads to overflowing garbage in residential areas
These issues, the MP argued, not only pose safety hazards but also tarnish the island’s image and impact tourism and economic activity.
Economic Impact and Policy Failures
According to the motion, delays in building permit approvals and lack of clear policy frameworks have significantly hindered economic growth. The construction sector—considered a key driver of Sint Maarten’s economy—has been particularly affected, resulting in reduced employment opportunities and strain on small businesses.
The Minister is also accused of failing to provide a clear strategic vision for addressing critical issues such as drainage systems, road development, and landfill management.
A Reluctant but Decisive Move
In closing remarks that resonated across the chamber, MP Lewis made it clear that the decision to bring forward the motion was not taken lightly.
“I asked to speak last because I wanted to see if anything would change my mind,” the MP stated. “I do not do this with joy. I do this for the country I was born and raised in.”
What Happens Next
If the motion is adopted, the Constitution of Sint Maarten requires the Minister to immediately place his position at the disposal of the Governor, effectively resigning from office.
Additionally, the motion seeks to restrict the Minister, in a caretaker capacity, from entering into long-term agreements or making decisions that could bind the country financially or administratively.
Nation Watches Closely
As Parliament prepares to debate and vote, the outcome could have significant implications for governance, economic recovery, and public trust.
For many citizens, the motion reflects growing frustration over longstanding issues that continue to affect daily life on the island.
The Parliament of Sint Maarten
Motion
The parliament of Sint Maarten in its meeting of today , April 1, 2026,
Considering:
- The Minister of VROMI, Mr. Patrice Gumbs has failed to establish clear and effective policy frameworks and take the necessary actions to support economic activity, particularly at a time when government revenue generation is critical.
- The Minister of VROMI, has failed to implement a clear, efficient, and timely mechanism for the processing and approval of building permits, resulting in significant delays that continue to hinder development of Sint Maarten.
- The Minister of VROMI’s inaction has negatively impacted the construction sector, a key driver of the economy, thereby reducing economic activity, limiting employment opportunities, and placing increased strain on local small businesses that depend on consistent development. The absence of a clear, actionable plan from the Minister’s office to address drainage systems and the road network. Despite references to ongoing multi-year studies, there have been no defined project timelines, no transparency regarding deliverables, and no indication of when infrastructure works will commence or be completed.
- The deteriorating condition of roads across Sint Maarten, including the significant number of damaged and abandoned vehicles along public roads, which pose safety hazards and create a widespread eyesore that negatively affects the country’s image.
- The Minister of VROMI, has shown lack of a clear vision and strategic approach to address the condition and management of the landfill (dump), which continues to present environmental, public health, and aesthetic concerns for residents and visitors alike.
- The Minister of VROMI, Patrice Gumbs has shown lack of strategic initiatives to attract foreign investment, thereby limiting economic growth and reducing opportunities for national development.
- The Minister of VROMI, has failed to implement policies and initiatives that would position Sint Maarten as an attractive and competitive destination for investors, resulting in stagnation to the economic expansion.
Establishes:
That the Minister of Vromi, Mr. Patrice Gumbs, has failed to adequately lead the Ministry
Vromi In the best interest of Sint Maarten
Resolves:
The Minister of VROMI, Mr. Patrice Gumbs, no longer has the confidence of the Parliament of Sint Maarten.
That, in accordance with Article 33, paragraph 2, of the Constitution of Sint Maarten, any Minister who receives a vote of no confidence from Parliament is required with immediate effect to place his or her position at the disposal of the Governor of Sint Maarten, thereby tendering his or her resignation without delay.
That, effective immediately upon the adoption of this motion of no confidence by Parliament, the Minister of VROMI, Mr. Patrice Gumbs, shall:
- Prohibited to sign off on any agreements, and or contracts, or any long-term policies, or financial commitments that may obstruct or encumber the new incoming Minister of VROMI from functioning adequately and that may commit and or effect and or bind the Country for a long time/ term in whatever way.
- Requested as a caretaker Minister after the motion of no confidence has been endorsed to instruct management and boards to refrain from entering long-term financial commitments, hiring new personnel in management functions, and entering into long-term agreements.
- Instructed not to take any decision as caretaker Minister of VROMI that will bind Sint Maarten entities.
- Being held personally responsible for any decision taken following this motion of no confidence against him, that may have serious financial and administrative consequences for County Sint Maarten and or Government-owned companies.
Conclusion:
Be it therefore resolved that this motion of no confidence reflects the serious concerns of Parliament regarding the leadership, performance, and accountability of the Minister of VROMI, and underscores the urgent need for responsible governance, transparency, and effective decision-making within the Ministry.
This motion shall take effect immediately upon its adoption.
Copies of this motion to be sent to:
- The governor of Sint Maarten
- The Government of Sint Maarten/ Council of Ministers of Sint Maarten/ The Prime Minister of General Affairs of Sint Maarten
- The Kingdom of Council of Ministers
- The Government of Curacao
- The Government of Aruba
- The Parliament of Curacao
- The Parliament of Aruba
- First and Second Chamber of the Netherlands
- General Audit Chamber of Sint Maarten
- Council of Advice of Sint Maarten
Sint Maarten, April 1, 2026
Submitted by: Supported by the following MP’s:
MP. Lyndon C.J. Lewis
MP Egbert Jurendy Doran
MP Omar Ottley