The Caribbean: New Dynamics in Trade and Political Economy

Prominent Caribbean scholars and policy experts analyze the implications for the Caribbean of a world in transition. Issues are presented in a new international context, including prospects for Cuba and Haiti. The effects of external debt and structural adjustment are reviewed; likely benefits and hazards of development options such as trade liberalization, privatization, and foreign direct investment are probed. The evolving Caribbean business environment and the political dynamic between public and private sectors are described.The external challenges for the Caribbean presented by the possible disappearance of unilateral trade preferences in Europe and North America are studied in chapters advancing a post-Lome strategy and planning for increased regional competitiveness. Also highlighted are intra-Caribbean relations and integration and projections for the future of hemispheric cooperation.