China’s expanding presence in the Caribbean, particularly near Florida, has raised national security concerns. Significant investments in maritime infrastructure and a surge in Chinese migrants entering the U.S. contribute to these apprehensions.
The Caribbean, often termed “America’s third border” due to its proximity, has seen substantial Chinese financial involvement. Notably, China invested $3.4 billion in the Freeport Container Port in the Bahamas, located just 87 miles east of Palm Beach, Florida. Between 2005 and 2022, China invested over $10 billion in six Caribbean nations.
Additionally, Chinese companies have established a presence near the Panama Canal, a critical maritime route connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. A Hong Kong-based firm operates two of the five ports close to the canal’s entrances. This development has prompted discussions about the strategic implications of China’s influence in this vital region.
Concurrently, there has been a notable increase in Chinese migrants apprehended at U.S. borders. In fiscal year 2022, authorities encountered 1,970 Chinese nationals. This number surged to over 24,000 in fiscal year 2023 and continued to rise in the first half of fiscal year 2024. Many of these migrants are single men of military age traveling in coordinated groups, raising security concerns.
In January 2025, a significant incident occurred in Coral Gables, Florida, where authorities discovered over 30 migrants, predominantly Chinese nationals, inside a U-Haul truck following a report of an alleged abduction. The migrants were believed to have arrived by boat, highlighting the methods used in human smuggling operations.
Experts emphasize the need for the U.S. to address these developments proactively. Gordon G. Chang, an author and expert on U.S.-China relations, stated, “I think the Chinese are trying to gain influence in a region which is very close to the American homeland.” He advocates for increased U.S. investment in the region to counterbalance China’s growing presence.
