Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has called for stronger trade and investment relations with Caribbean countries during a meeting with regional leaders in Antigua and Barbuda on November 3. His visit comes as Canada looks to expand its international partnerships and reduce its dependence on traditional trading markets.
Speaking at a working breakfast attended by Caribbean leaders ahead of the 28th Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM), Carney said there was considerable room to develop the existing relationship. He noted that trade between Canada and the Caribbean is already worth approximately $4 billion annually but believes both sides could achieve much more.
Representatives from countries including Jamaica, Barbados, Guyana, Belize, Trinidad and Tobago and Antigua and Barbuda attended the discussions. Canada’s Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand also joined the meeting.
According to the Canadian government, the discussions focused on expanding business opportunities, improving supply chains and encouraging sustainable economic growth. Energy, food security, infrastructure and regional security were also identified as important areas for future cooperation.
Carney also met Antigua and Barbuda’s Prime Minister Gaston Browne to discuss ways of strengthening relations between the two countries. Their discussions included tourism, youth development, climate resilience and investment opportunities.
Climate change remains a major concern for Caribbean nations, particularly smaller island states that face hurricanes, rising sea levels and damage to coastal communities. Recognising these challenges, Carney announced more than $70 million in new Canadian investments to improve disaster preparedness, strengthen infrastructure and support environmental restoration across Commonwealth countries, including the Caribbean.
The visit forms part of Canada’s wider effort to build stronger relationships with the Commonwealth’s 56 member countries, which together represent approximately 2.7 billion people.
Although the meetings have not produced a new trade agreement, they have created an opportunity for Canada and Caribbean nations to explore closer economic cooperation. Further discussions could help both sides develop new markets, attract investment and strengthen their position in an increasingly competitive global economy.
