Economic Development Strategy 2030.

The Economic Development Strategy lays down actions to build prosperous, dynamic and inclusive future for the inclusiveness in relation to environmental, social and economic benefits of Cook Islanders by 2030. The objectives of this Strategy are: (I) improving equity and access for all; (II) transforming the economy; (III) developing people and culture; (IV) investing in islands; and (V) greening the economy.
This Strategy addresses relevant social and environmental challenges to achieve sustainable economic development. The access to economic opportunities and services will be provided to all to improve equity and achieve better growth prospects and a more stable economy. Social welfare will be improved through better access to land and housing and minimum wage reform. The cost of living in Pa Enua will be reduced, with a special emphasis on food prices. Quality health services will be provided in each islands and healthy living advice will be provided to the communities. Human capital will be developed for economic growth and improved living standards. The contribution of the culture, traditions and community values will be maintained. The labour force participation rates and skills base will be increased with a gender sensitive approach. Additional business skills and marketing support will be provided to assist in transitioning small-scale business operations to a more commercial footing. The Strategy refers to the positive impact of a commercial relationship between Prime Foods and some small Pa Enua agricultural and food product businesses. The development and adoption of more innovative and productive technologies will be promoted to increase productivity, competitiveness and profitability. New economic opportunities will be explored to ensure economic growth, such as seabed minerals harvesting with exploration license.
The Strategy outlines the role for Government in creating a favourable and competitive business environment and investing in strategic infrastructure and programs that enable the private sector to make informed investment and business decisions. Public and private investments will be promoted to stimulate demand for goods and services and build the future capacity of local businesses. Green growth will be achieved through a transition to a low carbon economy by improving eco-efficiency, using fewer resources and generating fewer emissions. Preparedness for climate change will be strengthened to mitigate the economic and social risks of a more extreme climate. Economic recovery plans will be developed to respond in the event of a natural disaster. Affordable, reliable and sustainable energy will be provided, and renewable energy production will be promoted to ensure sustainable development, meet international climate change obligations and strengthen energy security. The management of solid and liquid waste will be improved through landfill and recycling. Better and more efficient ways of regulating the sustainable use of environmental resources will be introduced. Agricultural production will be increased in a sustainable manner to strengthen household and national food security and nutrition. The potential for local producers on Rarotonga and the Pa Enua will be recognized to increase food production to meet the local demand for fresh and nutritious meat, fruit and vegetables. Water resources management will be improved for both human consumption and agricultural irrigation. A new animal welfare legislation will be drafted. Comprehensive survey of wetlands will be conducted to better understand development impacts. Proactive and strategic biosecurity measures will be undertaken for the exclusion, eradication or management of exotic pests and diseases that pose a risk to the economy, environment, human health and cultural and social values of the Cook Islands.