part one:

Challenges in economic development in the region, propose that the CSME is necessary for economic and social objectives of the region. Development in the caribbean has lagged behind those of commparable countries because of our independence on the exploitation of natural resources and preference for agricultural produce (sugar and bananas). Economic performance suffered a decline which, while marginally better than that of Latin America, was still not as good as Asian countries. The notable exception to this poor growth performance was Trinidad and Tobago. While, the universally accepted indicators of development were considered to be income, health , education and life expectancy.

stay tuned for part two...