A—3

A comparative summary of export and import statistics by countries of origin and destination is as follows :

The' New Zealand Customs Tariff applies to the Cook Islands, with additional special duties on sugar, cotton piece-goods (except calico), linen piece-goods, piece-goods of mixed linen and cotton, and black twist tobacco. During the war period, import, finance, and price controls were instituted and have been kept in force. Import licences are required for certain goods imported from New Zealand and for all goods imported from other countries. A contract has been concluded during the year with the United Kingdom Ministry of Food for the sale of copra produced in. the Group. The contract is for a nine-year period from Ist January, 1949, and will have a stabilizing effect on the Group's economy. I. Information on Development Programmes Numerous capital development and construction schemes have been planned or carried out during the year. In 1945 a decision was made to re-equip and modernize the Rarotonga Radio Station. Reconstruction began three years later, and was completed in August last. In December a modern telephone system was installed on Rarotonga. Outer villages were linked with Avarua and a new manual exchange put in operation. The Rarotonga electric-power scheme is nearing completion, and is already supplying power to part of the Avarua area. As labour and equipment become free from concluded projects, work will proceed on the Tereora Training and Secondary School, urgently required staff residences, and other capital construction. In outer islands the progress of development programmes is handicapped by problems of transport of technicians, equipment, and materials. Comprehensive plans exist for the rebuilding of schools and dispensaries, and for improvements in reef passages and boat landings. New radio equipment is on order for several islands, and radio-telephone equipment for Penrhyn and Manihiki awaits transport from Rarotonga. A new hospital is planned for Aitutaki, and an extensive roading programme is being carried out on Mangaia.

26

. — 1945. 1946. 1 1 1947. | 1948. 1949. Exports, by Country of Destination £ £ £ £ £ New Zealand 100,629 93,817 149,323 155,584 165,033 Australia 1,172 1,254 6,951 United States of America 2,883 12,565 245 514 48,903 Other 1,562 626 2,006 84 Totals 106,246 108,262 158,525 156,098 214,020 Imports, by Country of Origin £ £ £ £ £ New Zealand ! 123,245 | 157,870 ' 201,769 226,427 212,329 Australia ! 3,713 5,652 i 5,301 8,208 7,845 United Kingdom 11,693 18,504 23,647 48,814 68,510 Canada .. .. ' .. 135 1,191 2,743 2,872 6,818 United States of America 2,876 I 8,037 16,501 7,353 11,590 Other 2,408 4,342 3,282 i 6,175 8,445 Totals .. 144,070 195,596 253,243 299,849 315,537 i