Sip Swierstra

Sip Swierstra

US Import Tariffs have Implications for Saba and Sint Maarten

On April 2, US President Donald Trump announced sweeping import tariffs affecting most countries worldwide, with rates ranging from at least 10% to over 50%. Sint Maarten was subjected to the minimum 10% tariff. But what will this mean for Saba? The relatively “low” tariffs imposed on these three Caribbean …

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Island Councils seek Dialogue and Inclusion in The Hague

On March 25th, the delegation of Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba continued their efforts to seek dialogue and inclusion in the process of amending the WOLBES and FINBES laws. The common delegation was welcomed by the members of the Kingdom Relations Committee (KOREL) of the First Chamber. During the meeting, …

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The Emerald Sakara  is visiting Saba

Today, the Emerald Sakara is visiting Saba! With 99 guests onboard, Saba will showcase our island’s breathtaking beauty and warm hospitality. From stunning landscapes to unforgettable experiences,. Saba will leave a lasting impression. Emerald Sakara – A Modern Luxury Yacht Experience The Emerald Sakara, a stunning 110-meter luxury yacht from Emerald …

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Public Entity Saba Newsletter No 09

The Public Entity Saba has published its Newsletter No 09 recapping the Treevia Night, sharing updates on a recent visit from the Ministry of OCW, the TuranGoeloe Masterclass, and looking back on a Climate Change workshop in Brussels. Click the image for access. PES

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KPCN introduces bodycams for increased safety and transparency

Starting the 4th of April 2025, the Dutch Caribbean Police Force (Korps Politie Caribisch Nederland, KPCN) will officially use bodycams on Bonaire, St. Eustatius, and Saba. With this step, KPCN enhances safety, transparency, and trust between the police and the community. Enhanced protection for citizens and police officers Bodycams are …

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Islands Call for Genuine Dialogue on WolBES and FinBES Revisions

This week, delegations from Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba continued their meetings in The Hague, following the State Secretary’s February 2025 correspondence on proposed amendments to the WolBES and FinBES laws. Ahead of these discussions, the islands convened during the BES Summit on Saba in February, where they agreed to …

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New Search and Rescue Boats for Saba and Statia in 2025

In 2025, Saba and St. Eustatius will each receive a state-of-the-art Search and Rescue (SAR) boat, fulfilling aviation legislation requirements mandating that airports have SAR capabilities at their disposal. The SAR service ensures distress monitoring, emergency communication, coordination, and rescue operations, as well as initial medical assistance or evacuation. These functions are …

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