THE BOTTOM, Saba – A report prepared by the advisors of Amsterdam Bureau of Economics, Strong Foundations for Sustainable Growth, identifies Saba’s harbour and wider transport links as critical foundations for the island’s future economic development.
The findings reflect a broader reality for small island economies, where connectivity is not a supporting factor but a core condition for economic activity.
According to the report, nearly every sector on Saba depends on reliable access. Tourism, trade, emergency response, supply chains and daily life are all directly linked to transport infrastructure, placing port and connectivity policy at the centre of development strategy.
The report argues that the harbour should be viewed as a lifeline rather than simply a point of arrival for cargo and passengers. Improvements in maritime access, logistics and operational coordination are seen as essential to strengthening resilience and competitiveness.
It also links port development to wider economic performance. Increased harbour capacity can reduce bottlenecks, improve the flow of goods and support local businesses that depend on consistent supply chains. In that sense, transport infrastructure is framed not only as a necessity, but also as a driver of economic opportunity.
Need for reliable transport systems
Air connectivity is described as part of the same system. The report notes that economic development cannot be separated from improvements in both sea and air access.
For Saba, this underlines the structural importance of reliable and well-coordinated transport systems. In a context of geographic isolation, connectivity functions as a key enabler of economic stability, growth and long-term planning.
The report concludes that strengthening transport infrastructure will be essential if the island is to support sustainable development in the years ahead.
