An interesting paper, ‘Beyond the Build: A New Canadian Strategy for Latin America and the Caribbean,’ was released on November 18, 2025, by the Canadian Council for the Americas.
At first glance, it appears to be another study that describes itself as focused on Latin America & the Caribbean, when in fact it’s really just about Latin America. However, a closer look suggests that some important recommendations are, in fact, relevant in the Canada-Caribbean context.
There are ways to revive trade relations, even without a trade agreement.
The discussion of business consortia that drive investment is quite relevant. Opportunities such as the Canada-Jamaica small nuclear reactor cooperation project have already been witnessed. Guyana and Canada have significant potential for cooperation in the energy field, and they could also explore other areas such as healthcare.
Labor mobility discussion, including student & faculty mobility, as well as skilled workers, would also address interests on both sides. Cyber security, port security, etc., are equally important and interesting.
Discussions on some of these topics are taking place already. However, a significant portion of this paper concentrates on exploring new avenues for government and business to take bolder, innovative actions.
The Canada-CARICOM Strategic Partnership has not shown much in the way of concrete outcomes since its launch. The variety of other actors in the overall bilateral relationship between the Caribbean and Canada would do well to take a thorough look at some of the ideas in the CCA’s new paper.
The Canadian Council for the Americas (CCA) unveiled its latest report, Beyond the Build: A New Canadian Strategy for Latin America & the Caribbean, calling for bold, immediate action to transform Canada’s trade & economic relationships across the region. The report outlines a high-impact plan that links Canada’s national infrastructure priorities with the Americas’ most pressing needs—unlocking unprecedented opportunities for growth, resilience and regional leadership.
