Notwithstanding the laudable objectives of the Caricom Single Market and Economy, a xenophobic culture among its constituents has threatened to undermine the CSME, even before its inception. Although boastful of its regional identity and interdependence, the xenophobia and dependence that has long plague this emancipated region, has instigated a myopic insistence on special and Differential Treatment for countries, regions and sectors disadvantaged under the system.

It is beyond challenge, that the proposed regional trading arrangements would lack equity and prospects for longevity, if it made no allowance for special and differential treatment. However, arguments for special and differential treatment Considering Special and Differential Treatment for Disadvantaged Contries, Regions and Sectors continues