Following a joint initiative by the Ministries of Tourism, Economic
Affairs, Traffic and Telecommunication (TEATT), Finance and Justice, the Council of Ministers has
approved a 50% reduction in the excise tax on gasoline. This measure will bring the maximum
gasoline price down from XCG 3.102 to XCG 2.853 per liter, providing relief to households and
businesses ahead of the holiday season.
Effective Thursday, November 12 th at 6:00 a.m., the maximum consumer prices will be:
The decision reduces the special import duty on gasoline from XCG 0.29 to XCG 0.145 per liter,
equivalent to a reduction from XCG 29.00 to XCG 14.50 per hectoliter.
The decision follows a price adjustment request received from Sunoco, also doing business as SOL,
on October 23, which indicated an increase in gasoline costs. This prompted the Ministries to
examine how Government could reduce the burden on consumers through the portion of the fuel
price within its control. The latest purchase costs, verified by the Department of Economy,
Transportation and Telecommunication (ETT) against international Platts postings, have been
incorporated into the updated maximum prices.
By reducing the gasoline excise tax by 50%, Government is lowering the tax burden carried by
consumers each time they fill their tanks. Under the updated price calculation, gasoline would cost
XCG 3.013 per liter with the previous excise rate. With the approved reduction, the maximum price
will be XCG 2.853 per liter.
For someone purchasing 40 liters of gasoline, this means a total saving of XCG 9.96 compared with
the current price. Of that amount, XCG 6.40 is attributable to Government’s relief measure, with
the remainder resulting from the market-related price adjustment.
“People feel these costs every time they fill their tank. They still have to get to work, take their
children to school and manage their everyday responsibilities. With the holiday season approaching
and traffic congestion adding to fuel consumption, this reduction comes at an important time,” said
Minister of TEATT, the Honorable Grisha Heyliger-Marten.
“We cannot control international fuel prices, but where we have room to ease the burden on our
people, we must act. That is what we are doing by reducing this duty. For someone purchasing 40
liters of gasoline, this decision means XCG 6.40 that stays in their pocket. We know this will not
solve every financial challenge, but it is a practical step we can take now to help.”
The Minister of Justice, the Honorable Natalie Tackling also welcomed the measure, emphasizing
the importance of providing practical relief to households facing the continued pressures of the
cost of living.
“Gas is one of those costs people carry quietly, week after week, and they have been asking for
relief. Halving this excise tax will not fix everything, but it’s a start, and it leaves more money in
people’s pockets. I am glad to work with my colleagues to deliver it.”
The Ministry of Finance has assessed the revenue implications and identified the fiscal space and
necessary budgetary adjustments to accommodate the proposed reduction. Anticipated budgetary
surpluses would provide the financial coverage for the measure.
“After months of persistent efforts, research, and advocacy, I am proud that we have reached a
point where we can finally translate our commitment into tangible relief for the people of Sint
Maarten.
In March of this year, I presented a proposal to the Council of Ministers for a temporary reduction
of import duties on gasoline, recognizing the financial pressures that rising fuel costs place on our
households and businesses. I reiterated this position on the floor of Parliament during both the
2026 and 2027 budget debates, firmly maintaining that we must explore every available avenue to
ease the cost of living for our people.
Today, with the approval of the Council of Ministers, this commitment is becoming a reality.
Together with my colleagues, the Ministers of Justice and TEATT, we have worked to turn this
objective into a measure that will provide meaningful relief where our people can feel it: at the
pump.
This achievement reflects what is possible when we move beyond discussions and work collectively
toward practical solutions. As Minister of Finance, I recognize that my responsibility is not only
about safeguarding the country’s financial stability. It is also about ensuring that the decisions this
Government makes translate into meaningful improvements in the lives of the people we serve.”
said Minister of Finance, the Honorable Marinka Gumbs.
The decrease in diesel prices results from lower market-related costs. The excise tax reduction does
not apply to diesel.
This temporary measure may take place for a period of two to three months, with the possibility of
reassessment. Subsequent fuel price announcements would clearly identify the relief provided,
allowing the public to understand how the measure affects the amount paid at the pump.
Alongside the relief measure, Government is advancing legislative work concerning the special
import duty on gasoline. A draft amendment to the relevant national ordinance was submitted to
Legal Affairs on November 2, 2026, for assessment and advice, taking into account matters
previously raised by the Council of Advice concerning a similar approach.
The Ministry of TEATT will continue to monitor fuel price developments and clearly identify the
effect of the relief in subsequent price announcements. This will allow the public to distinguish
between changes arising from international market conditions and the additional benefit provided
by Government’s decision.
The Ministries of TEATT, Finance and Justice reaffirmed their commitment to coordinated action
that delivers practical relief, responsible financial management and clear information for the
community.