China in the Caribbean: Trade, Investment, and Geopolitical Influence (2025)

China has been connected with the Caribbean community (CARICOM), and wider region for an extensive period. This relationship dates back to the colonial period of indentureship, when Chinese immigrants were brought to the region to work on sugar plantations. This historically enabled migration to the region which, over the years, has buoyed and indigenized various sectors of the economies in the Caribbean. The rapid growth of these developing economies and the associated increased integration with the global economy has had and continues to have direct and indirect effects on the CARICOM region and beyond.

This book contextualizes the relationship between CARICOM and China to help policymakers, development planners, and policy makers leverage opportunities available now and in the future.

The book highlights the historical trade and development linkages between China and CARICOM, considers the changing geopolitical landscape, and situates the role of China in CARICOM. It also proposes new opportunities to strengthen trade and development relations for the region and considers its geopolitical implications.