PHILIPSBURG—The government issued 2,253 compliance letters to businesses and taxpayers during its Joint Tax Compliance Initiative between February and April 2026, resulting in hundreds of taxpayer submissions, company file reviews and improved revenue collections across several major tax categories.
The government announced the successful completion of the initiative, which was aimed at strengthening tax compliance, improving taxpayer engagement and enhancing the accuracy of taxpayer information.
The project was led by Minister of Finance Marinka Gumbs in collaboration with Social and Health Insurances SZV Deputy Director Elton Felisie. It was carried out through a coordinated effort involving SBAB, ATS and tax compliance specialists from St. Maarten and Curaçao.
A total of 30 professionals were deployed across nine districts to deliver compliance letters concerning outstanding declarations, unpaid obligations, missing filings and record discrepancies.
As a result of the initiative, 392 taxpayers submitted supporting documentation. In addition, 388 company files were referred for review. Of those, 286 files were fully processed, while 106 remained under active review.
The project also generated significant administrative updates, including new registrations, de registrations, salary adjustments and corrections to employer and taxpayer records. More than 200 changes were identified and verified across over 100 employers, highlighting the importance of maintaining accurate and up-to-date compliance information.
Minister Gumbs said the initiative demonstrated that compliance efforts are most effective when the government and taxpayers work together. “This initiative demonstrates that compliance is most effective when government and taxpayers work together. Many individuals and businesses responded constructively, corrected inaccuracies, and regularised their positions, contributing to a stronger and more sustainable future for St Maarten.”
Felisie said the results highlighted the importance of collaboration among government agencies.
“These outcomes underscore the value of cooperation between institutions and the importance of maintaining accurate taxpayer information to support the effective administration of tax and social insurance obligations.”
According to a press release, preliminary indicators show improvements in both compliance and revenue performance compared to the same period in 2025. Revenue collections increased across several major tax categories, including Wage Tax, Turnover Tax, Profit Tax, AVBZ, AOV/AWW and ZV/OV.
The increases reflect stronger compliance and improved taxpayer responsiveness. While a comprehensive analysis of the initiative's long-term impact is still ongoing, the government views the early results as evidence that targeted compliance efforts can strengthen revenue administration, improve data accuracy and support a fair and sustainable tax system.
The government said it remains committed to advancing compliance initiatives, enhancing taxpayer services and promoting transparency, fairness and fiscal responsibility throughout the country's tax administration system.
