CBCS Selected for International Climate Finance Capacity Support

St. Maarten's annual regional trade fair, SMART 2027, has officially opened its registration period with a special promotional offer called the 'Chirp First Early Bird Season.' The fair, held in Philipsburg, St. Maarten, is a key business and commerce event that draws regional and international exhibitors and vendors. The early bird promotion is designed to incentivize early sign-ups, likely offering discounted rates or priority placement for participants who register ahead of a set deadline. SMART serves as an important platform for local entrepreneurs, regional businesses, and international brands to showcase products and services to Caribbean consumers. The opening of registration signals the beginning of the buildup toward the 2027 edition, giving businesses ample time to plan their participation. The fair plays a significant role in stimulating local economic activity and fostering regional trade connections across the Caribbean.

Sint Maarten-based regional carrier Winair is expanding its fleet as part of a broader growth strategy aimed at strengthening its position in the Caribbean aviation market. The airline, formally known as Windward Islands Airways, has long served as a critical connector between smaller Eastern Caribbean islands and major hubs. The fleet additions are expected to increase capacity and improve reliability across Winair's route network. Alongside the fleet growth, Winair is pursuing upgrades to its interline agreements, which allow passengers to book connecting flights across multiple airlines on a single ticket — a move that would make the carrier more competitive and convenient for travelers. Enhanced interline partnerships would allow Winair to feed passengers to and from larger international carriers more seamlessly. The developments signal renewed investment and ambition at the airline, which serves as a lifeline for many smaller islands with limited air access. If successful, the expansion could meaningfully improve regional connectivity across the Lesser Antilles.

The Ministry of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transport and Telecommunication (TEATT) on St. Maarten, through its Inspectorate of Economic and Transport Affairs (IETA), has released a list of car rental operators that have successfully completed the 2026 Confirmation Letter Process. The publication serves as official recognition of businesses that are currently in compliance with licensing and permit requirements. Alongside the compliant list, the ministry issued a final notice to operators who have not yet completed the process, signaling that a deadline is approaching. The move is part of the government's broader effort to regulate and formalize the car rental industry on the island. Non-compliant operators who fail to respond to the final notice risk losing their permits to operate legally. The action is significant for consumers and the tourism sector, as it helps ensure that rental businesses meet established standards. This regulatory push reflects St. Maarten's ongoing efforts to maintain a structured and accountable business environment within its tourism-driven economy.