United States. Central Intelligence Agency

“ Like many other South Pacific island nations, the Cook Islands' economic development is hindered by the isolation of the country from foreign markets, the limited size of domestic markets, lack of natural resources, periodic devastation from natural disasters, and inadequate infrastructure. Agriculture provides the economic base with major exports made up of copra and citrus fruit. Manufacturing activities are limited to fruit processing, clothing, and handicrafts. Trade deficits are offset by remittances from emigrants and by foreign aid, overwhelmingly from New Zealand. ”

“ Introduction Cook Islands Background: Named after Captain Cook, who sighted them in 1770, the islands became a British protectorate in 1888. By 1900, administrative control was transferred to New Zealand; in 1965 residents chose self-government in free association with New Zealand. The emigration of skilled workers to New Zealand and government deficits are continuing problems. ”

“ Population below poverty line: NA Household income or consumption by percentage share: lowest 10%: NA
highest 10%: NA Inflation rate (consumer prices) : 3.2% (2000 est.) Labor force: 8,000 (1996) Labor force - by occupation: agriculture 29%, industry 15%, services 56%
note: shortage of skilled labor (1995) Unemployment rate: 13% (1996) Budget: revenues: $28 million
expenditures: $27 million, including capital expenditures of $3.3 million (FY00/01 est.) Agriculture - products: copra, citrus, pineapples, tomatoes, beans, pawpaws, bananas, yams, taro, coffee ”