China and Taiwan in Latin America and the Caribbean

The book provides an examination of the evolution of China and Taiwan after 1949. This starting point situates the contestation for power between the two entities in the region after Taipei was recognized by the international community as the representative of China. The ramifications for Taiwan were drastic as country after country switched its recognition to China including those in the Caribbean and Latin America.  Taiwan was able to maintain diplomatic relations with several countries in both regions through diplomatic strategies including providing financial assistance.  This has waned over time considering China’s economic rise to power and Western Europe’s and the United States’ fall in global economic and political prestige and power.

This book discusses China’s and Taiwan’s continuing engagement with countries in Latin America and the Caribbean with a particular emphasis on the sharp rise in trade between China and the two regions.  China’s foreign policyagenda, and how Taiwan reacts to China’s policies, are also examined.

“Not unlike the U.S. Government’s use of economic incentives to achieve its goals in Latin America and the Caribbean against Nazi Germany and the Soviet Union during the Cold War, the PRC has been successfully using economic incentives to further its political goals in the Global South.  The book succeeded in explaining how [and why] the PRC is winning the struggle against Taiwan.” [-- Michael R. Hall, Georgia Southern University, US.]

“This is an indispensable resource for anyone seeking a nuanced understanding of the intricate geopolitical dynamics shaping these regions. With meticulous research, it navigates the complex history and evolving power play between China and Taiwan, shedding light on their diplomatic strategies, economic ties, and the profound implications for the future. A must-read for scholars and policymakers alike.” [-- Dean Karalekas, Centre of Austronesian Studies University of Central Lancashire, UK.]

“The book provides a balanced approachto the study of the People’s Republic of China (PRC) and the Republic of China’s (ROC) quest for recognition and influence in Latin America and the Caribbean.  It is a timely assessment of the resonating themes of geo-political strategy that the PRC has initiated in the region. Readers will recognize how the PRCs' utilization of the “One-China Principle” has worked in the country’s favor to wrestle international recognition from the ROC.” [-- Alecia D. Hoffman, Alabama State University, US.]

Cassandra Rachel Veney is Executive Director of the Humanities in Leadership Learning Series at Case Western Reserve University.

Sabella Abidde is Professor of Political Science at Alabama State University. He is the editor of the two book series: African Governance, Development, and Leadership and Africa-East Asia International Relations.