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• GDP: US$387 million (2007).
• Main exports: Coconut products, fish, copra, taro and automotive parts.
• Main imports: Machinery and equipment, industrial supplies and foodstuffs.
• Main trade partners: Australia, New Zealand, American Samoa, Fiji and Japan.
• Main exports: Coconut products, fish, copra, taro and automotive parts.
• Main imports: Machinery and equipment, industrial supplies and foodstuffs.
• Main trade partners: Australia, New Zealand, American Samoa, Fiji and Japan.
Economy
Fishing and subsistence agriculture are important sources of income and employment for most Samoans.
The government has concentrated on tourism and export-oriented manufacturing in its efforts to develop the economy. Tourism now contributes 17% of GDP, with 90,000 visitors arriving annually.
The government has also, with some success, sought to promote an offshore financial services industry. Further income comes from the remittances of Samoans working overseas - mostly in New Zealand and, to a lesser extent, in Australia; both these two countries also provide Samoa with a sizeable aid package.
The economy is now growing at 5.5% annually, with inflation at 3.3% in 2005.
The government has concentrated on tourism and export-oriented manufacturing in its efforts to develop the economy. Tourism now contributes 17% of GDP, with 90,000 visitors arriving annually.
The government has also, with some success, sought to promote an offshore financial services industry. Further income comes from the remittances of Samoans working overseas - mostly in New Zealand and, to a lesser extent, in Australia; both these two countries also provide Samoa with a sizeable aid package.
The economy is now growing at 5.5% annually, with inflation at 3.3% in 2005.
Business Etiquette
Shirt and smart trousers will suffice for business visits. Ties need only be worn for formal occasions. Best time to visit is from May to October.
Office hours: Mon-Fri 0800-1200 and 1300-1630.
Office hours: Mon-Fri 0800-1200 and 1300-1630.
Business Contacts
Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Labour
Level 4, ACB Building, Apia, Samoa
Tel: 20441/2.
Website: www.mcil.gov.ws
Level 4, ACB Building, Apia, Samoa
Tel: 20441/2.
Website: www.mcil.gov.ws