Strengthening U.S.-Caribbean Trade: A Win-Win for Economic Growth and Security

By Ronald Sanders

On February 20, I had the privilege of testifying on behalf of Antigua & Barbuda before the United States International Trade Commission (USITC) as part of its review of the Caribbean Basin Economic Recovery Act (CBERA). For decades, this Act has played a pivotal role in shaping U.S.-Caribbean trade relations, fostering economic growth and mutual benefits for both regions.

A stronger, more resilient Caribbean is not just beneficial to the region – it is vital to the long-term stability, prosperity, and security of the United States

Key Takeaways from My Testimony:

• A Strong Trade Partnership
  The United States maintains a consistent trade surplus with Caribbean nations, including a US$5.8 billion surplus with the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) in 2024. This surplus supports American jobs, businesses, and exports, underscoring the Caribbean’s role as a committed and valuable trading partner.
• The Strategic Importance of CBERA
  The continuation and expansion of CBERA are not just economic imperatives – they are strategic necessities. A decline in Caribbean economies heightens risks such as poverty, unemployment, drug trafficking, and irregular migration, all of which have direct implications for U.S. security and regional stability.
• Evolving Caribbean Economies
  Today, the Caribbean is a predominantly services-driven economy, with services accounting for over 75 percent of employment and 66 percent of total output. The U.S. already enjoys a trade surplus in services with the region. Expanding CBERA to include services would align with this economic shift and unlock new opportunities for U.S. industries in finance, technology, tourism, and education.
• The Unresolved WTO Dispute
  Since joining the World Trade Organization (WTO) in 1995, Antigua & Barbuda has remained fully compliant with its trade obligations. However, a 2004 WTO ruling in our favor – upheld after two U.S. appeals – remains unresolved. While legally entitled to suspend U.S. intellectual property rights as compensation, Antigua & Barbuda has instead chosen the path of diplomacy, seeking a fair settlement in good faith. The U.S. remains the only WTO member that has yet to comply with an arbitration ruling, an issue that must be addressed to uphold the integrity of global trade rules.

The Path Forward

Modernizing and strengthening CBERA is in the shared interest of both the United States and the Caribbean. Doing so will deepen trade ties, expand economic opportunities, and reinforce the Caribbean as a stable, democratic, and secure region that aligns with U.S. strategic priorities.

As policymakers evaluate trade legislation, it is essential to recognize the Caribbean’s economic and geopolitical significance. A stronger, more resilient Caribbean is not just beneficial to the region – it is vital to the long-term stability, prosperity, and security of the United States.

Ronald Sanders is Antigua & Barbuda’s Ambassador to the US and the OAS