A significant amount (43 percent) of the entrepreneurs indicated that they experience investment obstacles, which shows a 14 percent decrease compared to June 2011. As can be seen in the figure below, these are mainly due to a shortage of financial resources, 21 percent, and poor market forecast at 18 percent. Also government policy at 13 percent and obtainment of work permits at 11 percent are important obstacles for investments.

The consumer price index for Sint Maarten has increased in the month of October 2011 by 0.3 percent compared to that of August 2011. 

When comparing average consumer prices over a twelve month period (Oct. 2010 to Oct. 2011), it can be noted that an increase of 3.9 percent was recorded compared to the same period one year earlier. The rate of inflation has shown steady growth since April 2011.

The consumer price index for Sint Maarten has remained stable in the month of August 2011 compared to that of June 2011.

When comparing average consumer prices over a twelve month period (Aug. 2010 to Aug. 2011), it can be noted that an increase of 3.2 percent was recorded compared to the same period one year earlier.

Preliminary results for 2010, show an overall decrease in economic activities on St. Maarten of 1.6 percent compared to 2009. In 2009, real growth contracted slightly by 0.9 percent.

This estimated real change in the Gross Domestic Product (GDP), is based on a Partial Economic Activity Index (PEAI), as well as results of the business cycle survey.