After pointing out that small island economies are diverse in their economic situations and in their ability to benefit from globalisation, this article examines the actual situation of South Pacific island countries. It takes into account their size and its diversity; variations in their involvement in international trade; their geographic, ethnic and cultural differences; their international political associations; and differences in their degree of economic development. All of these factors, as well as their common attributes, influence the prospects of small Pacific Island countries for benefiting from economic globalisation. The question of whether the MIRAB characterisation of South Pacific Island Economies continues to be relevant is explored... |