Cook Islands Economy

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.

In the 1980s and 1990s, the country lived beyond its means accumulating a large foreign debt. Subsequent
reforms, such as better economic management, the encouragement of tourism, and a debt restructuring agreement, have helped to rekindle growth.

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