This 6% accounts for approximately 2800 persons within our community.
The Ministry of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transport and Telecommunication (TEATT), as
part of the broader Country Package Reform under the measure Strengthening the Rule of
Law (H2), is spearheading efforts to regulate the gambling industry and address the public
health risks tied to addiction.
In collaboration with the Temporary Work Organization (TWO), part of the Ministry of the
Interior and Kingdom Relations (BZK), TEATT developed a multi-agency Plan of Approach
(POA). This plan, now in progress, focuses on:
Bringing the island into compliance with international financial oversight bodies
(CFATF and FATF),
Establishing a modern, independent regulatory body—the Sint Maarten Gaming
Authority (SMGA),
Raising awareness about gambling addiction and enforcing preventative measures
by gaming operators.
Findings from the Gambling Study
Recognizing the absence of updated data since 1996, the interministerial workgroup that
spearheads the Plan of Approach has assigned the Ministry of Public Health, Social
Development and Labor (VSA) to lead a new study on gambling behavior and prevalence.
The research, commissioned by VSA in partnership with TWO and the Department of
Statistics (STATs), was conducted by Ipsos I&O and surveyed over 800 residents between
March 26 and April 8, 2025.
Key results include:
36% of residents (11,100–13,300 people) reported to have gambled in the last 12
months.
Men and young adults (ages 18–34) were the most active gamblers.
30% of the gamblers play daily or weekly, and 15% said they gamble more than
one hour a week.
Popular forms of gambling (game of chance in which money is exchanged) include
lottery, dominos, bingo, card games, and casinos.
Motivations for persons include fun as well as the hope of winning money.
70% of the residents consider gambling a serious problem in the community.
Among gamblers, this is 63%.
6% of the population (1,300–2,800 residents) are at moderate to high risk of
gambling-related harm, citing financial, mental, and social problems.
The residents of Sint Maarten are divided over the impact of gambling: 34% believe
it does have positive impacts on jobs, visitors, and income, 39% believe the industry
brings little to no positive impact to the island, and 27% is undecided.
The final report, already presented to the Council of Ministers, offers firm
recommendations—ranging from limiting gambling venues and reducing public exposure to
gambling, to expanding support services and launching public awareness campaigns.
Government Responds
Officials say that the data underscores the need for stronger industry oversight,
enforcement, and protection, as well as improved public health and social responses.
“These numbers show us the most recent figures regarding the level of community
participation within the gambling industry. This study will serve as a basis to further guide
policy decision-making and regulation that are in line with industry standards, market
developments, and protection of our community. We must take a balanced approach to
ensure that we protect our community while also discouraging the industry from going
“underground” or moving from the formal to informal sector.
The Sint Maarten Gaming Authority (SMGA), once fully operational, will act as the
regulatory authority overseeing gaming operations, enforcing compliance, and ensuring
gambling activities are conducted responsibly and transparently.
What’s Next
The government has committed to further phases of research, policy development, and
legislative changes in the coming months. Public consultation, education campaigns, and
collaboration with civil society will be key pillars of the reform strategy.
As Sint Maarten works to overhaul its gambling industry, the government recognizes that
gambling can no longer continue to be unchecked—it must be managed with clear rules,
accountability, and a firm commitment to protecting public well-being.