10 March 2025
Encompassing business ventures, policy decisions, and diplomatic engagements that have significantly influenced both his personal enterprises and U.S. relations with the region.
Business Ventures in the Caribbean
Trump’s business interests in the Caribbean have been notable, particularly his real estate endeavors:
• Le Château des Palmiers in Saint Martin: In 2013, Trump acquired this luxury beachfront estate. Initially listed for sale in 2017 at $28 million, the property saw its price reduced to $16.9 million later that year. The estate was also available for rent, with rates reportedly exceeding $21,000 per night.
• Cap Cana Project in the Dominican Republic: In 2007, the Trump Organization entered a licensing agreement to develop a luxury resort in Cap Cana. The project faced delays due to the 2008 financial crisis, leading to legal disputes. By 2017, there were indications of renewed interest, with Eric Trump visiting the site, suggesting potential re-engagement in the project.
• Canouan Development in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines: Trump embarked on a project in 2003 to manage a resort casino and golf course on Canouan Island. The venture faced challenges, and by 2010, new ownership took over, with the Trump Organization no longer involved. In 2017, Trump reported earning $3 million from land sales related to this property.
Policy and Diplomatic Engagements
During his presidency, Trump’s interactions with Caribbean nations were marked by strategic diplomatic efforts:
• Venezuela Crisis and Caribbean Diplomacy: In March 2019, Trump met with leaders from the Bahamas, Dominican Republic, Haiti, Jamaica, and Saint Lucia at his Mar-a-Lago resort. He pledged increased investment in these nations, contingent upon their support for Venezuelan opposition leader Juan Guaidó. This move aimed to strengthen regional opposition to Nicolás Maduro’s regime in Venezuela.
• Cuba Policy: Trump’s administration adopted a stringent stance toward Cuba, reversing the previous administration’s efforts to normalize relations. This approach included reinforcing sanctions and designating Cuba as a state sponsor of terrorism, actions that have had profound implications for U.S.-Cuba relations and the broader Caribbean region.
Cultural Recognition
Trump acknowledged the contributions of Caribbean Americans by proclaiming June as National Caribbean-American Heritage Month during his tenure. These proclamations highlighted the cultural and historical ties between the United States and the Caribbean, celebrating the significant impact of Caribbean Americans on the nation’s fabric.
Recent Developments
As of early 2025, Trump’s policies continue to influence the Caribbean. The U.S. government’s freeze on foreign aid has prompted Caribbean nations to seek alternative funding sources and reduce reliance on traditional aid, leading to both challenges and opportunities for regional self-reliance and economic transformation.
In summary, Donald Trump’s Caribbean connections are characterized by a blend of personal business interests and policy decisions that have left a lasting impact on the region’s economic and diplomatic landscape.
