Cook Islands seeks to enhance trade

By Pacific Island Times News Staff

Rarotonga—The Cook Islands has officially launched its Trade Policy Framework 2025-2030, which provides a strategic direction for the nation’s trade agenda and economic diversification.

“Trade is a vital pillar of the Cook Islands economy, contributing directly to our nation’s prosperity and the well-being of our people,” said Tingika Elikana, minister of foreign affairs and immigration.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, along with the Business, Trade, and Investment Board, launched the policy framework at the New Hope Church Hall on Oct. 10.

According to a press release from the Cook Islands government, the European Union funded the updated trade policy framework through the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat’s Strengthening Pacific Intra-Regional and International Trade Project.

The trade policy framework was first adopted in 2015 and has been refreshed to reflect the changing global trade environment and the Cook Islands’ evolving development priorities, officials said.

The new framework is aimed at strengthening the Polynesian nation’s trade, focusing on priority areas, such as economic diversification and trade between the Pa Enua and Rarotonga.

Pa Enua, which refers to the outer islands of the Cook Islands, is considered the heart of the nation's cultural heritage and natural beauty, encompassing both volcanic islands and coral atolls. They are accessible by both boat and local flights. Domestic trade between Pa Enua and Rarotonga is designed to enhance food security.

The Cook Islands will also explore export opportunities in niche and untapped markets and regional trade agreements.

Repeta Puna, CEO of the Business Trade & Investment Board, underscored the vital role of collaboration between the public and private sectors in advancing this important initiative.

“This is not work we can accomplish in isolation,” Puna said.

“It’s essential that government agencies and the business community come together, share insights, and support one another to ensure this document doesn’t gather dust over the next five years. Instead, it should be actively updated and reflect meaningful progress,” he added.

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