BLOG SURF: Challenges of islands

Pacific island countries face unique and broad challenges. Their remoteness and generally small populations preclude them from benefiting from economies of scale in investments, and services are often more costly to produce and maintain.

In addition, Pacific island countries are highly vulnerable to natural disasters. Cyclone Winston which hit Fiji last year resulted in total damage estimated to be over 30% of GDP.

Addressing the region’s infrastructure needs requires innovative solutions, better planning, and the combined efforts of the global development community to bring the Pacific’s infrastructure to a point where it can support higher levels of sustainable growth.

ADB works with development partners in the Pacific—Australia, the European Union, the European Investment Bank, the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), New Zealand and the World Bank—to deliver coordinated assistance and relevant research.