The Caribbean is a miscellany of people, experiences, and traditions with distinct perspectives, beliefs, and practices. Yet, there are also many ways in which we are similar.

In 1973, seizing up our similarities and using them as a springboard to create unity among our nations, our leaders signed the Treaty of Chaguaramas. It was there the Caribbean Community & Common Market (CARICOM) was birthed.

Established to stimulate trade and economic growth in the region, CARICOM comprises 15 member states, five associate members and several observing nations. The shared belief was that if we were to unite and create a free-trade zone and a single market, all our economies would benefit. 

Now, 50 years later the benefits have been tremendous. CARICOM and the resulting intergovernmental collaboration has strengthen us as a community. Our leaders have had the privilege of working together, borrowing each other’s expertise to better guide our individual nations and the region as whole.

Moreover, we all experience the gains daily. It’s in our easy access to certain products which result from trade agreements. Another factor is that, as CARICOM nationals, we all enjoy relatively easy passage between countries. Also, with the Caribbean Single Market Economy (CSME), relocating from one state to another is a remarkably seamless transition for many of us.

In honour of CARICOM celebrating its 50th anniversary, we’re discussing of the notable initiatives of the organisation, CSME. Read on as we share tips on how you can benefit from CSME. We’ll address all that it is and what it’s not. Let’s delve in and learn more.

What is CSME?

In response to globalisation, the CARICOM nations, classified internationally as developing countries, banded together to create one market. The goal was and continues to be to increase opportunities for CARICOM nationals to sell their goods and services. CSME affords citizens of the initiative’s participating members free movement of products or services (labour or skills) across the states.

Which countries participate in CSME?

It’s important to note that not all of the 15 member states and five associate members in CARICOM are a part of CSME. If you’re from any of the following countries, then it’s something you can consider. The participating countries are Antigua & Barbuda, Barbados, Belize, Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, Jamaica, St Kitts and Nevis, St Lucia, St Vincent, Suriname, and Trinidad and Tobago.

What is the free movement of skill/labour?

Skilled CARICOM nationals from a CSME member state can seek employment in any other CSME participating country. Thus, a work permit is not needed to gain employment. However, you will need to to apply for the CSME Skills Certificate.

What are the categories of skills approved for free movement?

As CSME member state national you must meet the standardised skills and labour criteria to attain a CSME Skills Certificate. The prerequisite for seeking employment in a CSME member state is any of the following:

• University graduate
• Musician
• Media worker
• Artiste
• Sportsperson

How do you acquire a CSME Skills Certificate?

Upon arrival, you can acquire the CSME Skills Certificate in your country or the host country. If received in your country, be sure to check that you meet the employment qualifications and immigration requirements of the host country.

Can you take your family with you?

Once you’ve obtained the CSME Skills Certificate, you can take your immediate family members with you.

With CSME, are you entitled to residency in the host country?

No, CSME does not entitle you to residency in the host country. To become a resident, you should follow your host country’s lawful requirements.  

Can I leave the host country and return?

You can leave and re-enter the host country without restrictions as a certificate holder.

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To learn more about the various CARICOM initiatives underway and any new development with the Caribbean Single Market Economy, visit www.caricom.org. 

Now let’s see what we’ve learnt about CARICOM and CSME. Have fun trying our short quiz. The answers are listed below.

1. How many CARICOM associate members are there?
2. What Central American country is a part of CARICOM?
3. A CSME Skills Certificate holder can relocate to Suriname (T/F)
4. Having a Skills Certificate entitles you to residency in the host country (T/F)
5. As a sportsperson, you cannot apply for a CSME skills certificate (T/F)

Sources: CARICOM Caribbean Community, Investopedia, Jamaica Information Service and Trinidad and Tobago Ministry of Foreign Affairs & CARICOM.

Answers: 1. Five 2. Belize 3. True 4. False  5. False