The St. Maarten government said in a national statement this Saturday afternoon that certain categories of businesses are to close for two weeks, while restaurants are now required to close at 22 p.m. daily. These measures are a response to the rapid increase in the number of coronavirus cases in the Dutch part

Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transport and Telecommunications Minister Ludmila de Weever said government intervention was “of urgent importance” given the increasing number of cases and increased medical capacity from the country.

Bars, nightclubs, nightclubs, lounges and adult entertainment establishments are to close according to the recently signed ministerial decree, De Weever said. The closures will be in effect from Sunday August 16 until Monday August 31. The decree also stipulates that restaurants must close at 22 p.m. every day.

Casinos can remain open, but with restrictions on table games and the service of refreshments.

Deputy Prime Minister Egbert Doran stressed that the country is not in a state of emergency. However, he said tougher measures will be considered if coronavirus cases continue to rise.

Mr. Doran urged residents to follow health guidelines and minimize non-essential travel. He also wished a speedy recovery to those who are currently suffering from the coronavirus.

There are 150 active coronavirus cases in St. Maarten, according to the latest figures released by the government on Friday. The number of active cases has more than doubled over the past week, from 74 to 150.

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