The currency of French Polynesia is the CFP Franc, known colloquially as the Pacific Franc, or just the Franc. The economy of French Polynesia is based mostly on the tourism industry, comprising 85% of the GDP for the country. Tourism also provides 80% of the islands' jobs. Another large industry is pearl farming for the famous Tahitian Black Pearls. Exports earn the country around 230 million USD every year. Japan and the US are the largest recipients of these exports. Most imports to the island come from mainland France. The currency of New Caledonia is also the CFP Franc. As it is in French Polynesia, tourism is a major industry for the island. But, unlike French Polynesia, New Caledonia has very large nickel deposits. The smelting and mining of nickel is the majority of industry on the island. A recent nickel trading deal with China has strengthened the prospects for the future of the colony. Exports earn the country around 1.5 billion USD every year, leaving it in a very confident position. China, Japan, and South Korea receive the majority of exports. Most imports to the island come from Mainland France. The question on most peoples minds is this: Can the islands survive a possible independence referendum? Now, dear readers, I am not here to try sell you false truths. I will admit, it will probably take a lot of effort to recover in the immediate aftermath of independence. Funds will have to be shuffled around, trade deals renegotiated, and ties to countries apart from France made. The living will probably be rough for a time, but eventually, things will even out and French Polynesia and New Caledonia will emerge as powerful countries in their own right. Statistics retrieved from the CIA World Factbook.
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Tom HodekHi! My name is Thomas Hodek and I am the author of this site. This is an active project for an English course I am enrolled in. I am an American student and award-winning actor. My goal with this site is to spread awareness of the plight of the French colonies, which are not yet autonomous. A side note: This blog is very much a work in progress, so be patient with it! Archives
November 2016
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