PHILIPSBURG:--- The Minister of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transport, and Telecommunications (TEATT), Grisha Heyliger Marten, has recently addressed concerns about the country's sluggish economy, pointing to unforeseen challenges such as a new tariff wall. Despite these hurdles, the minister outlined an ambitious strategy to safeguard the nation’s economic stability and foster growth through targeted measures.
During a press briefing, the minister acknowledged the unexpected tariff wall's impact on the economy, stating that it was not anticipated. However, proactive steps are already underway to mitigate its effects. One of the ministries’ primary focuses has been bolstering food security, moving from reliance on external sources to local production capabilities. "It’s important to get our gardeners to transition into becoming farmers," the minister emphasized, highlighting the strategy to strengthen domestic agriculture as a means to ensure a stable food supply.
To further address the tariff challenge and safeguard the nation, the Ministry of TEATT is working collaboratively with the ministries of General Affairs and Finance. Together, they have formed a Strategic Task Force to prevent and combat economic disruptions caused by external trade barriers. While specific details about the task force's work are forthcoming, the minister assured SMN News that these efforts will be critical in protecting the country and its citizens.
The minister also detailed initiatives to enhance trade relations with neighboring countries to diversify economic opportunities. Trips to Barbados, St Kitts, and the Dominican Republic have been part of these efforts, intending to establish stronger partnerships.
A key element of this plan is the creation of the Animal Livestock and Fishery (ALF) agency. This agency will develop Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) with regional nations, fostering agreements that promote mutual benefits in agriculture, livestock, and fisheries.
The ALF agency’s work is expected to increase the nation's capacity to handle trade in these areas and ensure consistent economic partnerships. These efforts underscore a broader drive to build resilience within the economy by expanding local production capabilities and solidifying international trade ties.
While the tariff wall posed an unexpected obstacle, the Ministry of TEATT, in collaboration with other government entities, is taking decisive action to address current challenges and lay the groundwork for a more robust and self-sufficient economy. The minister concluded by promising that more updates on the task force and related initiatives would be shared in the near future.
