A New Influence in Latin America and the Caribbean

For decades, Latin America and the Caribbean have been under the protection and leadership of the United States. However, that is changing as America turns inward to focus on its own domestic issues. This has created a power vacuum that China seeks to fill, gaining new support, power, and influence in the Western Hemisphere (Barbados Today, May 17, 2025). At a recent forum of the China-Community of Latin American and Caribbean States held in Beijing, President Xi Jinping outlined China’s plan for increased cooperation with the region. He noted that “China is ready to work with LAC [Latin America and the Caribbean] to jointly implement the Global Security Initiative… [work toward] the Denuclearisation of Latin America and the Caribbean, and enhance cooperation in disaster management, cybersecurity, counterterrorism, anti-corruption, drug control and combating transnational organised crime to safeguard regional security and stability.”

Investing heavily in the region, China is winning friends and influencing people in a powerful way. Another Chinese official noted, “China always pursues the greater good and shared benefits when developing relations with Caribbean countries, and attaches importance to helping with regional development and promotes shared development between the two sides.” While the United States remains the primary trading partner in the region, China is number two and growing in prominence—and this is all happening as America pulls back international aid and support.

Bible prophecy declares that the Israelite-descended nations, including the United States, will decrease in power and influence at the end of the age (Deuteronomy 28:43), becoming surpassed by those who have long stood in their shadow. To learn more, you can read or listen to The United States and Great Britain in Prophecy.