PHILIPSBURG:--- The Department of Statistics (STAT) is developing a Statistical Publication Calendar to give policymakers, businesses, researchers, journalists and the public a clearer indication of when official statistics and key indicators will be released.
The initiative forms part of a broader effort to strengthen cooperation with government departments, public entities, businesses and other data providers to improve the quality, timeliness and availability of statistics for St. Maarten.
STAT said much of its work depends on information supplied by other organizations, making timely, accurate and complete submissions essential to producing reliable statistical reports.
Through its stakeholder engagement efforts, the department is identifying information needs, assessing available data and addressing gaps across the public and private sectors. It is also working to establish clearer data-sharing arrangements and greater consistency in definitions, classifications and methodologies.
The planned publication calendar is intended to make the release process more transparent by showing when statistical publications and key indicators are expected. The department did not announce a launch date for the calendar.
STAT emphasized that its ability to meet users’ needs depends partly on external organizations fulfilling their data-provision responsibilities. Stronger information-sharing arrangements are therefore central to improving the consistency and timeliness of releases.
The department will also explore using administrative records more alongside traditional surveys. In doing so, it aims to account for St. Maarten’s small population and reduce the burden of repeatedly asking the same individuals to participate in surveys, a problem known as survey fatigue.
At the same time, STAT encouraged residents to participate when invited, noting that reliable statistics and accurate conclusions require sufficient responses.
The initiatives support the 2026 Caribbean statistical theme, “Harmonizing Data, Strengthening Resilience,” which emphasizes cooperation and consistency in building stronger statistical systems.
STAT representatives are also participating in a CARICOM regional statistical meeting during the week of October 26, 2026, to exchange experiences and methodologies and strengthen regional cooperation.
“Quality statistics depend on cooperation,” the department stated. “STAT cannot produce the statistics needed by St. Maarten in isolation.”
STAT said it remains committed to strengthening relationships with its data providers while making the statistical process more transparent, timely and comprehensive.
