PHILIPSBURG:--- The St. Maarten Hospitality & Trade Association, the largest private sector representative, commends the initiative of Minister Lake to control and reduce his Ministry's Expenditures. SHTA has long felt that before government increases the tax burden on the community two things should happen.
One: The government should try, where possible, to reduce its expenses and improve efficiency.
Two: The base of the tax-paying population should be increased. The Ministry of Finance estimates current compliance to be a mere 40%-50%. Besides it being fairer when everyone pays their share, improvements in these areas should give Government the operating capital it requires and perhaps even allow Government to reduce the tax burden for the people who are already complying.
The SHTA supports the efforts of Minister Lake and his Ministry to reduce their expenditures. Hopefully, the successes and lessons of their efforts can be transposed to other Ministries. Ultimately, the community in general benefits greatly from a more cost effective government apparatus
SHTA, the largest business representative on the island, is dedicated to bringing quality to all aspects of life on St. Maarten by promoting sustainable economic development for its members in cooperation with the social partners and the creation of a fair marketplace. For more information, please contact the SHTA office: 542-0108, e-mail This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or visit our website www.shta.com.
