PHILIPSBURG:--- The Department of Statistics collaborates with various stakeholders to compile and present official statistics for the country. Stayover arrival data, in particular, is provided by the Immigration and Border Protection Services (hereafter referred to as “IBPS”) Department. In November 2024, St. Maarten IBPS introduced an upgraded immigration data processing system, representing a significant step forward in the country’s modernization and data reliability. This enhancement, with the partnership of the Immigration & Border Protection Services, the Princess Juliana International Airport (PJIAE), and the Department of Statistics, has significantly improved the accuracy of stayover arrival records. This upgrade in the new system significantly reduces manual data entry and human error. The updated approach ensures that traveler classifications are automatically and consistently generated.
This approach aligns with international best practices, such as those adopted by the United States, where Automated Passport Control (APC) kiosks were introduced at airports to streamline entry procedures and enhance data accuracy. As with the U.S. experience, the transition to a more precise system may temporarily affect year-over-year comparisons but ultimately enhances the reliability and international consistency of arrival statistics. Accordingly, the year 2025 will serve as the new baseline or “base year” for future comparisons of visitor arrivals by air.
