SMART 2026: Where the Caribbean Comes Together to Do Business

"Each June, St. Martin/St. Maarten becomes the meeting place for the Caribbean’s tourism industry as the St. Martin/St. Maarten Annual Regional Tradeshow (SMART) welcomes buyers, suppliers, airlines, tourism boards, hoteliers, travel advisors, technology providers and media from across the Caribbean, North America and Europe." By Barbara A Warren The Caribbean Nexus

SMART 2026 was the largest edition yet, bringing together more than 140 exhibiting companies from 27 countries and territories at the JW Marriott St. Maarten Convention Centre. Five days of pre-scheduled business meetings, networking events and island experiences created thousands of opportunities to build lasting partnerships. More than a trade show, SMART showcases the very best of St. Martin. Delegates experienced the island’s renowned hospitality, world-class cuisine, multicultural heritage and breathtaking scenery while discovering why it is one of the Caribbean’s leading tourism gateways. The opening reception at the Moonrise Bar at Grand Case Beach Club perfectly captured the destination’s warmth and charm. Buyers included tour operators, travel advisors and wholesalers, while suppliers ranged from hotels, resorts and attractions to airlines, tourism boards and destination marketing organizations. New features, including the Green Room, Small Hotel Plaza and AI-focused seminars, highlighted the industry’s commitment to innovation and sustainability. Organized annually by a uniquely binational group of tourism boards, private sector associations and supporting companies, SMART continues to strengthen St. Martin’s position as the Caribbean’s premier tourism networking destination. SMART is where the Caribbean connects, collaborates and grows. The countdown to SMART 2027 has already begun. We look forward to welcoming you.

A Legacy of Caribbean Collaboration Reflections on 25 Years of SMART

Lisa Euton Former SHTA President

“When the St. Maarten Hospitality & Trade Association (SHTA) first envisioned SMART, the goal was simple: to involve the Tourism Bureaus and the private sector on the French side, and create a platform where Caribbean tourism professionals could come together, build relationships, and showcase the incredible diversity of our region. To see what SMART has become today is truly inspiring. What began as an idea has grown into one of the Caribbean’s most important tourism marketplaces, bringing together buyers, suppliers, airlines, tourism boards, hoteliers, entrepreneurs, and industry leaders from around the world. More importantly, it has created opportunities that continue to benefit St. Martin, St. Maarten, and our neighboring islands year after year. SHTA and its partners are incredibly proud of the legacy SMART has built. It stands as proof of what can be achieved when the public and private sectors work together with a shared vision. Beyond the business generated and partnerships created, SMART has helped showcase the warmth of our people, the beauty of our island, and the strength of Caribbean collaboration. Watching the next generation of SMART partners continue to grow and evolve this event has been one of my greatest rewards. The success of SMART belongs to everyone who believed in its mission, and I am honored to have played a role in creating something that continues to make a meaningful difference for our island and the wider Caribbean tourism community. The future is bright, and if the growth and energy of SMART 2026 are any indication, the best is yet to come.”