comprador
/ˌkɑmprəˈdɔr/
noun
- A local agent or intermediary who worked for a foreign company in East Asia, especially in China, handling trade and business dealings.
- In the 19th century, a comprador helped European merchants navigate the Chinese market.
- Many compradors became wealthy by acting as middlemen in the tea and silk trade.
- The comprador negotiated deals between the foreign firm and local suppliers.
- A person who collaborates with foreign interests in a way that is seen as betraying their own country or culture.
- The term 'comprador' is sometimes used to describe local elites who serve outside powers.
- Critics accused the politician of being a comprador for foreign corporations.
- Some viewed the new trade agreement as creating a class of compradors.