Labor Market Recovery: Building a Resilient, Skilled Workforce
Employment Still Below Pre-Pandemic Levels
Sint Maarten’s economy grew in 2024, but the labor market has lagged. Formal employment remains below pre-COVID levels, signaling that job creation has not kept pace with recovery. Many workers have likely shifted into informal or precarious employment.
Labor Market Recovery: Building a Resilient, Skilled Workforce
This mismatch poses risks to social stability, productivity, and government revenue. To fully recover, Sint Maarten must invest in private sector job creation and workforce development.
Addressing Labor Shortages
The private sector employs nearly 90% of the formal workforce. Yet many businesses face labor shortages. These gaps push up wages without corresponding productivity gains—an unsustainable trend. The government can ease this pressure by:
Labor Market Recovery: Building a Resilient, Skilled Workforce
- Expediting work and residency permits for qualified foreign labor.
- Targeting permit approvals to high-demand sectors, such as construction and tourism.
- Clarifying processes and improving coordination between agencies.
These short-term fixes will help fill gaps, but a long-term workforce strategy is also needed.
Investing in Skills and Training
For lasting impact, Sint Maarten must invest in upskilling its workforce. Training programs should focus on high-growth, service-oriented sectors. Priorities include:
- Digital skills
- Tourism and hospitality excellence
- Construction and green energy trades
Labor Market Recovery: Building a Resilient, Skilled Workforce
A stronger skills base will support wage growth, improve productivity, and help formalize more jobs.
Conclusion
Labor market recovery isn’t just about numbers—it’s about quality, inclusion, and sustainability. By supporting job creation, streamlining permits, and training its people, Sint Maarten can build a stronger, more inclusive economy that benefits all
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