SMART 2026: the regional tourism sector is set to gather in Sint Maarten
The 18th edition of the Saint Martin/Sint Maarten Annual Regional Tradeshow (SMART) brought together tourism stakeholders from the region this week. With business meetings, tours, and activities, this trade fair serves as a showcase to promote the island to international markets.
Since Monday, the region has been hosting a new edition of SMART. Held this year at the JW Marriott, the event helps to strengthen ties between tour operators, travel agencies, hoteliers, restaurateurs and local service providers. For the Tourist Board, a partner of the trade fair since its inception, the event serves multiple purposes. “The aim is to meet industry professionals, but also to promote the island by giving them a first-hand look at the destination,” explains Julie Lestage, European market promotion manager.
An event that is growing in stature
In the Caribbean, trade fairs dedicated to tourism remain few and far between. SMART is therefore establishing itself as a benchmark in the sector. In total, twenty-seven countries and territories will be represented at the 2026 edition. This year, the fair also has 40 per cent more space, enabling it to accommodate 30 exhibitors, compared with 20 in 2025. A ‘Green Room’ also highlights sustainable tourism, featuring local stakeholders committed to more responsible practices.
As for the companies, some, such as Rising Sun Tours, attend the fair every year. Specialising in high-end private excursions, island tours and luxury transfers in Saint Martin, Sint Maarten, Saint Barthélemy and Anguilla, the company’s operations director emphasises the importance of having “face-to-face discussions” with his peers. “The trade fair allows us to reconnect with certain clients, discover new companies and develop business relationships,” he says.
Open to industry professionals only, SMART thus helps to strengthen links between the islands, whilst fostering discussions on market trends and travellers’ expectations. It is a way for the region to remain an attractive destination.
