The Cook Islands heavily relies on imports to sustain its population and support various sectors. Petroleum products, food and beverages, machinery and equipment, vehicles and automotive parts, pharmaceuticals and medical supplies, electrical and electronic equipment, construction materials, clothing and textiles, furniture and furnishings, and paper and paper products are among the major imports in the Cook Islands. The country's closest trading partners for these products vary, with New Zealand and Australia being prominent trading partners across multiple categories. The import values and volumes discussed highlight the significance of international trade in supporting the Cook Islands' economy and meeting its diverse needs.
Petroleum Products:
Petroleum products, including gasoline, diesel, and other refined fuels, top the list of major imports in the Cook Islands. The country imports a significant volume of petroleum to meet its energy requirements. The closest trading partners for petroleum products are often Australia and New Zealand. The estimated volume of petroleum imports is around 100 million liters annually, with a corresponding value of approximately $120 million.
Food and Beverages:
As an island nation, the Cook Islands imports a substantial amount of food and beverages to cater to its population's dietary needs. This category includes staple food items, processed goods, beverages, and alcoholic beverages. New Zealand is the primary trading partner for food and beverages. The estimated annual value of imports in this category exceeds $80 million.
Machinery and Equipment:
To support construction, agriculture, manufacturing, and other sectors. The closest trading partners for machinery and equipment are often countries like Australia, New Zealand, and Japan. The estimated annual value of machinery and equipment imports in the Cook Islands is approximately $60 million.
Vehicles and Automotive Parts:
The Cook Islands relies heavily on imports of vehicles and automotive parts to meet its transportation needs. This category includes cars, motorcycles, trucks, and their respective parts and accessories. Australia, New Zealand, and Japan are the primary trading partners for vehicles and automotive parts. The estimated annual value of imports in this category exceeds $40 million.
Pharmaceuticals and Medical Supplies:
The healthcare sector in the Cook Islands heavily depends on imports of pharmaceuticals and medical supplies. This category includes prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, medical equipment, and supplies. New Zealand and Australia are the main trading partners for pharmaceuticals and medical supplies. The estimated annual value of imports in this category is approximately $30 million.
Electrical and Electronic Equipment:
To meet the demand for consumer electronics, appliances, and electrical equipment, the Cook Islands imports a significant volume of electrical and electronic products. This category includes televisions, computers, refrigerators, air conditioners, and other household appliances. New Zealand, Australia, and China are the primary trading partners for electrical and electronic equipment. The estimated annual value of imports in this category exceeds $25 million.
Construction Materials:
The construction industry in the Cook Islands relies on imports of construction materials such as cement, steel, timber, and other building supplies. These materials are essential for infrastructure development and housing projects. New Zealand and Australia are the closest trading partners for construction materials. The estimated annual value of imports in this category is approximately $20 million.
Clothing and Textiles:
The Cook Islands imports a significant volume of clothing and textiles to meet the domestic demand for apparel and fabrics. This category includes ready-to-wear garments, fabrics, and accessories. New Zealand, Australia, and China are the main trading partners for clothing and textiles. The estimated annual value of imports in this category exceeds $15 million.
Furniture and Furnishings:
To cater to the needs of households, hospitality establishments, and other sectors, the Cook Islands imports a considerable volume of furniture and furnishings. This category includes indoor and outdoor furniture, mattresses, carpets, and home decor items. New Zealand, Australia, and China are the primary trading partners for furniture and furnishings. The estimated annual value of imports in this category is approximately $10 million.
Paper and Paper Products:
The Cook Islands imports paper and paper products for various purposes, including stationery, packaging materials, and printing needs. This category includes paper, notebooks, cardboard, and other paper-based products. New Zealand and Australia are the closest trading partners for paper and paper products. The estimated annual value of imports in this category exceeds $5 million.
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