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Samoa Major Exports

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Samoa, a small island nation in the South Pacific, relies heavily on agriculture, fisheries, and remittances from its large diaspora to sustain its economy. As an island nation, Samoa has a rich natural environment that provides a foundation for its primary exports, including agricultural products like coconut oil, fish, and taro, as well as mineral resources like pumice. Despite its modest size, Samoa’s export economy plays a crucial role in its development, with key products primarily going to markets in the United States, New Zealand, and Australia.

1. Fish and Seafood

Overview of Fish Exports

Fisheries are one of Samoa’s most important export sectors, with the country’s waters being rich in tuna, snapper, and other valuable marine resources. Tuna, in particular, is the cornerstone of Samoa’s seafood industry, which is growing rapidly due to increasing global demand for seafood, especially in the form of canned or frozen products. Samoa’s location in the Pacific Ocean makes it an ideal hub for tuna fishing, with commercial fishing and small-scale artisanal fishing both contributing to the sector.

  • Fish Export Value: Fish exports are valued at approximately $50 million annually, making it one of the leading sectors in the country’s export economy.
  • Main Products: Key products include canned tuna, frozen tuna, and fishmeal, which are exported to global markets, especially in the United States, Japan, and the European Union.

Key Markets for Fish

  • United States: The U.S. is one of the largest markets for Samoan tuna, both in canned and frozen forms.
  • Japan: Japan imports large quantities of Samoan tuna for use in its sushi and sashimi industries.
  • New Zealand: Samoa exports fish and seafood products to New Zealand, which is a significant part of the Pacific Island trade network.

2. Coconut Oil and Other Coconut Products

Overview of Coconut Products

Coconuts have long been a staple crop in Samoa, and the island nation has developed a robust export industry around coconut oil and other coconut-based products. The production of coconut oil, copra (dried coconut meat), and desiccated coconut is an essential part of Samoa’s agricultural economy. The growing global demand for natural oils and health-related products has further boosted the export value of Samoan coconut products.

  • Coconut Oil Export Value: Coconut-related products, including coconut oil, are valued at approximately $25 million annually.
  • Other Products: Aside from coconut oil, other Samoan coconut products include copra, desiccated coconut, and coconut-based cosmetics and personal care products.

Key Markets for Coconut Products

  • United States: The U.S. is a key importer of Samoan coconut oil, particularly for the organic and health-conscious market segment.
  • New Zealand: New Zealand imports a variety of coconut products, including coconut oil and desiccated coconut, for use in the food industry.
  • Australia: Australia is another significant market for Samoan coconut-based products, including both oil and dried coconut products.

3. Taro

Overview of Taro Exports

Taro is an important agricultural crop in Samoa, deeply ingrained in the local culture and cuisine. It is one of the country’s key exports, and its popularity has been growing internationally. Taro is often exported both fresh and processed, and it plays an important role in the Samoan diet, as well as in Pacific Island communities around the world.

  • Taro Export Value: Taro exports contribute around $15 million annually to Samoa’s export economy.
  • Product Types: Taro is primarily exported in its fresh form, but there is also a growing market for frozen and processed taro products.

Key Markets for Taro

  • United States: The U.S., particularly in states with large Pacific Islander populations like California and Hawaii, is a major importer of Samoan taro.
  • New Zealand: New Zealand has a strong demand for fresh and frozen taro, especially in the Pacific Islander communities.
  • Australia: Australia imports a significant amount of taro, particularly for its Pacific Islander diaspora and the growing interest in global cuisines.

4. Nonu (Noni) Juice and Other Health Products

Overview of Nonu Juice Exports

Nonu, also known as Noni, is a fruit native to Southeast Asia and the Pacific Islands. In Samoa, nonu is used to produce nonu juice, a health supplement that is gaining international popularity due to its reputed health benefits. The production of nonu juice has become an important export commodity, particularly as the demand for organic and natural health products continues to rise globally.

  • Nonu Juice Export Value: Nonu juice and related health products contribute approximately $5 million annually to the export economy of Samoa.
  • Product Forms: Nonu is primarily exported in juice form, but it is also available as capsules and powders in the health and wellness market.

Key Markets for Nonu Products

  • United States: The U.S. is one of the largest markets for Samoan nonu juice, driven by the increasing consumer demand for natural health supplements.
  • Australia: Australia imports nonu juice and health products as part of a growing trend toward alternative medicine and natural wellness products.
  • New Zealand: New Zealand is another key market for nonu products, particularly for consumers interested in organic and natural health supplements.

5. Pumice

Overview of Pumice Exports

Samoa also exports pumice, a light, porous volcanic rock that is commonly used in construction, abrasives, and cosmetics. Pumice is abundant in Samoa due to the country’s volcanic origins, and its relatively low density makes it a valuable export commodity. While pumice is a niche market compared to the more dominant agricultural exports, it still provides a substantial income for the country.

  • Pumice Export Value: Pumice exports contribute around $3 million annually to Samoa’s economy.
  • Product Uses: Pumice is used in the construction industry for lightweight concrete, as well as in cosmetic products like exfoliants and soaps.

Key Markets for Pumice

  • New Zealand: New Zealand is a major importer of pumice, particularly for use in construction and cosmetic products.
  • Australia: Australia also imports pumice from Samoa for use in the construction and landscaping sectors.
  • Pacific Islands: Other Pacific Island nations, such as Fiji and Tonga, are important regional markets for Samoan pumice.

6. Handicrafts and Textiles

Overview of Handicrafts and Textiles

Samoa’s vibrant culture is reflected in its handmade arts and crafts, which are increasingly gaining international recognition. Handicrafts, such as woven mats, baskets, and traditional garments, are integral to Samoan identity. These products are increasingly being exported, with a growing interest from global markets in authentic Pacific Island artwork and crafts.

  • Handicraft Export Value: Handicrafts and textiles contribute approximately $2 million annually to Samoa’s export revenue.
  • Product Types: Key exports include woven baskets, mats, tapa cloth, and handmade garments such as the traditional lavalava (sarong).

Key Markets for Handicrafts

  • United States: The U.S. is a significant market for Samoan handicrafts, particularly for those looking for authentic Pacific Island art and home décor.
  • New Zealand: New Zealand has a strong demand for Samoan handicrafts, both from the general public and the large Pacific Islander community.
  • Australia: Australia is another key market, especially in cities with sizable Pacific Islander populations like Sydney and Melbourne.

7. Other Exports

Overview of Other Agricultural and Mineral Exports

In addition to the primary export categories, Samoa also exports a range of smaller agricultural products such as bananas, papayas, and cocoa, as well as minerals like limestone. These exports help diversify the country’s trade portfolio, though they are less significant in terms of overall revenue compared to the major categories mentioned above.

  • Other Export Value: These other products contribute around $5 million annually to Samoa’s export economy.
  • Products: Includes bananas, cocoa, and some other tropical fruits and minerals.

Key Markets for Other Exports

  • New Zealand: New Zealand imports various tropical fruits from Samoa, including bananas and papayas.
  • Australia: Australia is another key market for Samoan agricultural products like tropical fruits.
  • Pacific Islands: Samoa also exports small quantities of agricultural products to neighboring Pacific Islands.

Top Products Exported by Samoa

Market Value: 227 (millions) – Last Updated: June, 2024

Top Products Exported by Samoa

Rank Product Trade Value (thousands) Share (%) Growth (% 5yr)
1 Insulated Wire & Cable 55,060 24.30 183.86
2 Meat Flour for Animals 3,354 1.48 208.06
3 Fruit & Vegetable Juice 1,852 0.82 431.91
4 Fresh Fish 1,563 0.69 -62.37
5 Passenger Vehicles 1,432 0.63 55,767.12
6 Transformers, Converters & Power Supplies 1,097 0.48 11,955.96
7 Food Preparations 966 0.43 -13.31
8 Ferrous Waste & Scrap 933 0.41 1,985.90
9 Motor Vehicle Parts 925 0.41 16,235.32
10 Cotton 600 0.26 0.00
11 Articles of Jewelry & Parts 541 0.24 0.00
12 Parts For Fork Lifts, Bulldozers & Graders 498 0.22 0.00
13 Fish Fats & Oils 494 0.22 0.00
14 Records & Tapes 489 0.22 2,221.03
15 Electric Motors & Generators 472 0.21 0.00
16 Electronic Integrated Circuits 371 0.16 7,459.71
17 Diesel Engines 295 0.13 0.00
18 Air & Vacuum Pumps 266 0.12 16,666.27
19 Copper Waste & Scrap 255 0.11 1,011.09
20 Dried Fruit 248 0.11 39.81
21 Coconuts 247 0.11 -60.53
22 Taps, Cocks & Valves 244 0.11 0.00
23 Computers, Printers & Storage Units 214 0.09 252.52
24 Frozen Vegetables 206 0.09 0.00
25 Pearls 172 0.08 0.00
26 Interchange Hand & Machine Tools 166 0.07 0.00
27 Microphones 147 0.06 0.00
28 Filters & Centrifuges 142 0.06 0.00
29 Articles of Iron & Steel 137 0.06 0.00
30 Containers of Transport 127 0.06 0.00
31 Lead 124 0.05 0.00
32 Flour & Meal 116 0.05 11.84
33 Plastic Containers 106 0.05 0.00
34 Furniture & Parts 105 0.05 24.64
35 Aircraft Engines 102 0.04 0.00
36 Alloy Steel > 600 mm Wide 99 0.04 0.00
37 Engines & Motors 92 0.04 0.00
38 Computer & Office Machines Parts 91 0.04 62.45
39 Tea 86 0.04 0.00
40 Coconut Oil 84 0.04 -9.22
41 Beer 84 0.04 58.34
42 Aircraft Parts 84 0.04 0.00
43 Telephone, Fax & Switching Apparatus 80 0.04 0.00
44 Seamless Iron & Steel Tubes & Pipes 73 0.03 0.00
45 Articles of Plastics 68 0.03 1,144.93
46 Glass Fibers & Articles 68 0.03 0.00
47 Television, Radio & Assessory Parts 57 0.03 0.00
48 Physical Exercise Equipment 56 0.02 4,937.70
49 Carbon Electrodes & Brushes 54 0.02 391.57
50 Plants For Pharmacy 52 0.02 34.75
51 Plastic Waste 52 0.02 0.00
52 Misc Animal Products 50 0.02 0.00
53 Binders For Found Molds 49 0.02 0.00
54 Books 45 0.02 888.63
55 Orthopedic Appliances 44 0.02 -8.20
56 Aluminum Waste & Scrap 42 0.02 466.21
57 Refrigerators & Freezers 42 0.02 0.00
58 Ball & Roller Bearings & Parts 41 0.02 0.00
59 Survey Instruments 38 0.02 177.89
60 Beauty & Make-up Perparations 35 0.02 107.35
61 Oscilloscopes & Electrical Measuring Instruments 34 0.02 0.00
62 Switches, Relays & Fuses < 1000 Volts 31 0.01 678.11
63 Medicines in Doses 30 0.01 2,251.09
64 Glazed Ceramic Flags & Paving 29 0.01 160.58
65 Moving & Grading Machinery 29 0.01 227.72
66 Seats & Parts 28 0.01 1,222.24
67 Dried Fish 27 0.01 0.00
68 Agricultural Machinery For Soil 27 0.01 0.00
69 Solder Machines 26 0.01 0.00
70 Medical, Dental & Vet Instruments 25 0.01 0.00
71 Hair Preparations 24 0.01 3,901.50
72 Prepared & Preserved Meat 22 0.01 0.00
73 Polymers of Vinyl Chloride 21 0.01 0.00
74 Cel Phones, Video Recorders & Radio Transcievers 21 0.01 3,784.86
75 Knitted Sweaters 20 0.01 -99.44
76 Trailers 20 0.01 1,373.58
77 Postage & Revenue Stamps 19 0.01 0.00
78 Pumps For Liquids 19 0.01 20.75
79 Malt Extract 19 0.01 0.00
80 Parts For Machine Tools 18 0.01 1,094.64
81 Gaskets & Similar Joints of Metal Sheeting 17 0.01 0.00
82 Drawing Instruments 16 0.01 0.00
83 Machine Tools For Forging 16 0.01 52.09
84 Non-Knit Womens & Girls Suits 15 0.01 0.00
85 Frozen Fish 15 0.01 -94.16
86 Ink Jet Printers 14 0.01 170.02
87 Transister & Semiconductor Devices 14 0.01 0.00
88 Instruments for Measure & Check Flow 13 0.01 0.00
89 Leather Footwear 13 0.01 -12.40
90 Frozen Fruit & Nuts 13 0.01 0.00
91 Screws, Bolts & Nuts 13 0.01 0.00
92 Articles of Aluminum 12 0.01 0.00
93 Instruments For Physical or Chemical Analysis 12 0.01 -74.07
94 Plastic Self-Adhesive Plates 11 0.01 1,416.51
95 Carbides 11 0.01 0.00
96 Knitted & Crocheted Fabrics 11 0.00 7.90
97 Chain & Parts 11 0.00 -59.60
98 Personal Toilet Preparations 11 0.00 0.00
99 Engine Parts 10 0.00 15.66
100 Checks & Stamps 9 0.00 -21.80
101 Pictures & Photos 9 0.00 741.94
102 Measuring or Checking Instruments 9 0.00 876.35
103 Specialized Electrical Machinery & Parts 9 0.00 -95.53
104 Hardware For Furniture, Doors & Windows 9 0.00 1,513.37
105 Trucks 9 0.00 52.35
106 Arcade, Table or Parlor Games 8 0.00 0.00
107 Builders Ware of Plastics 8 0.00 -92.85
108 Articles of Vulcanized Rubber 8 0.00 0.00
109 Food & Drink Preparation Machines 8 0.00 0.00
110 Fresh Vegetables 8 0.00 669.90
111 Abrasive Powder 7 0.00 0.00
112 Cassava 7 0.00 -87.94
113 Handbags, Wallets & Travel Goods 7 0.00 0.00
114 Finishing Agents For Textiles 7 0.00 -81.24
115 Tools For Working in the Hand 7 0.00 -94.95
116 Wood, Continuously Shaped (Tongued or Grooved 6 0.00 0.00
117 Hand Tools 6 0.00 0.00
118 Odoriferous Mixtures 6 0.00 0.00
119 Mattress Supports 6 0.00 0.00
120 Lamps & Lighting Fittings 6 0.00 0.00
121 Dishwashing & Packaging Machines 6 0.00 0.00
122 Knitted Babies Garments & Accessories 6 0.00 123.93
123 Printed Circuits 5 0.00 0.00
124 Mechanical Machinery & Parts 5 0.00 0.00
125 Handsaws & Metal Parts 5 0.00 0.00
126 Stoppers & Caps 5 0.00 0.00
127 Tube & Pipe Fittings 5 0.00 0.00
128 Chocolate 5 0.00 0.00
129 Structures & Parts of Iron or Steel 4 0.00 -89.42
130 Ink 4 0.00 0.00
131 Brooms & Mops 4 0.00 0.00
132 Electric Lasers 4 0.00 178.05
133 Sanitary & Toiletry Paper 4 0.00 0.00
134 Motorcycles 4 0.00 0.00
135 Transmission Shafts, Bearings & Parts 3 0.00 262.99
136 Wood Marquetry 3 0.00 363.88
137 Knitted T-Shirts 3 0.00 80.19
138 Textile Footwear 3 0.00 0.00
139 Medicines Not in Doses 3 0.00 -16.78
140 Cocoa Powder 3 0.00 -68.95
141 Washers & Dryers 3 0.00 0.00
142 Non-Knit Mens & Boys Shirts 3 0.00 0.00
143 Bed & Table Linen 3 0.00 -66.58
144 Parts For Electric Equipment 3 0.00 -96.97
145 Collectors Items of Botanic 3 0.00 37.77
146 Animal Feed 2 0.00 0.00
147 Electric Sound & Visual Signaling Apparatus 2 0.00 -8.56
148 Live Fish 2 0.00 0.00
149 Organic Surface-Active Agents 2 0.00 0.00
150 Misc Fats & Oils 2 0.00 0.00
151 Padlocks 2 0.00 0.00
152 Containers For Compressed & Liquid Gas 2 0.00 -62.44
153 Office Paper 2 0.00 0.00
154 Made-Up Articles of Textile Materials 2 0.00 0.00
155 Essent Oils Resinoid 2 0.00 0.00
156 Prepared Vegetables 1 0.00 56.66
157 Embroidery in the Piece 1 0.00 0.00
158 Parts of Electric Motors 1 0.00 0.00
159 Cocoa 1 0.00 86.25
160 Aluminum Structures & Parts of 1 0.00 0.00
161 Plastic & Rubber Footwear 1 0.00 -73.93
162 Electric Water Heaters 1 0.00 0.00
163 Prepared Fruit 1 0.00 -84.70
164 Imitation Jewelry 1 0.00 51.91
165 Anti-knock Preparations 1 0.00 0.00
166 Lead Waste & Scrap 1 0.00 0.00
167 Woven Cotton Fabrics > 85% > 200 G/M2 1 0.00 0.00
168 Copper Wire 1 0.00 0.00
169 Non-Knit Track Suits 1 0.00 0.00
170 Radar Apparatus & Navigation 1 0.00 0.00
171 Shawls & Scarves 1 0.00 0.00
172 Sewing Machines 1 0.00 -43.94
173 Bananas 1 0.00 -99.21
174 Notebooks & Business Forms 1 0.00 -86.22
175 Basketwork 1 0.00 0.00
176 Coconut 1 0.00 0.00
177 Reception Apparatus For Radiotelephony 1 0.00 -77.08
178 Felt 1 0.00 0.00
179 Bread, Pastry & Cakes 1 0.00 -91.73
180 Optical Lenses & Fibers 0 0.00 0.00
181 Clasps, Buckles & Hooks 0 0.00 0.00
182 Cocoa Paste 0 0.00 0.00
183 Video Recording Equipment 0 0.00 0.00
184 Vegetable Saps & Extracts 0 0.00 -98.89
185 Non-Knit Womens & Girls Blouses 0 0.00 0.00
186 Photographic Still Cameras 0 0.00 0.00
187 Sand Blasting Machines 0 0.00 0.00
188 Non Tufted Woven Carpets 0 0.00 0.00
189 Tableware & Kitchenware 0 0.00 0.00
190 Woven Fabric of Synthetic Filament Yarn 0 0.00 0.00
191 Knit &Lace Hats 0 0.00 -69.70
192 Festive & Entertainment Art 0 0.00 0.00
193 Products of Plaiting Materials 0 0.00 -79.48
194 Cycle Parts & Assessories 0 0.00 -99.90
195 Safety Glass 0 0.00 0.00
196 Prepared Unrecorded Sound Media 0 0.00 -98.91
197 Files, Pliers & Shears 0 0.00 -92.65
198 Resin Carving Material 0 0.00 0.00
199 Wine 0 0.00 0.00
200 Puzzles, Models & Toys 0 0.00 0.00
201 Insulating Fittings For Assembly 0 0.00 0.00
202 Typewriter Ribbons 0 0.00 0.00
203 Looseleaf Binder Fittings & Paper Clips 0 0.00 0.00
204 Misc Headgear 0 0.00 0.00
205 Hydraulic Brake Fluids 0 0.00 0.00
206 Bells & Ornaments 0 0.00 -99.44
207 Plastic Sheets, Film & Plates 0 0.00 0.00
208 Knitted Womens & Girls Blouses & Shirts 0 0.00 0.00
209 Primary Cells & Batteries 0 0.00 0.00

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