Heyliger-Marten discusses possible Miami-Dade partnership for Sint Maarten

Minister of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transport and Telecommunication Grisha Heyliger-Marten said discussions on a possible sister-city relationship between Sint Maarten and Miami-Dade County could create opportunities for local entrepreneurs, investment, education, tourism and trade. Heyliger-Marten represented Sint Maarten at the 28th Inter-American Conference of Mayors and Local Authorities, which she said was the first time the Government of Sint Maarten had been invited to take part.

Heyliger-Marten said the proposed relationship should provide opportunities residents and businesses can access. She said discussions include trade, entrepreneurship, investment, knowledge-sharing, educational exchanges, tourism and innovation, and that Miami could help businesses reach buyers, distributors, investors and business partners in the United States.

She linked the discussions to the Island Routes to Global Routes trade mission, supported by the St. Maarten Chamber of Commerce and Industry. The mission is scheduled in Miami from 16 to 19 November 2026. Registration closes on 15 October 2026, with payment due by 30 October 2026.

Heyliger-Marten said Miami-Dade representatives expressed interest in stronger collaboration with Sint Maarten. She encouraged established businesses, new entrepreneurs and people considering starting a business to consider the trade mission.