87 the Australian Government
closed the mine. In 1991, the mine was reopened. With the support of
the government, a $34 million casino opened in 1993, but closed in
1998. The Australian Government in 2001 agreed to support the
creation of a commercial space-launching site on the island,
expected to begin operations in the near future.

Clipperton Island
Although 115 species of fish have been identified
in the territorial waters of Clipperton Island, the only economic
activity is tuna fishing.

Cocos (Keeling) Islands
Grown throughout the islands, coconuts are
the sole cash crop. Small local gardens and fishing contribute to
the food supply, but additional food and most other necessities must
be imported from Australia. There is a small tourist industry.

Colombia
Colombia's economy has experienced positive growth over the
past five years despite a serious armed conflict. In fact, 2007 is
regarded by policy makers and the private sector as one of the best
economic years in recent history, after 2005. The economy continues
to improve in part because of austere government budgets, focused
efforts to reduce public debt levels, an export-oriented growth
strategy, improved domestic security, and high commodity prices.
Ongoing economic problems facing President URIBE include reforming
the pension system, reducing high unemployment, and funding new
exploration to offset declining oil production. The government's
economic reforms and democratic security strategy, coupled with
increased investment, have engendered a growing sense of confidence
in the economy. However, the business sector continues to be
concerned about failure of the US Congress to approve the signed FTA.

Comoros
One of the world's poorest countries, Comoros is made up of
three islands that have inadequate transportation links, a young and
rapidly increasing population, and few natural resources. The low
educational level of the labor force contributes to a subsistence
level of economic activity, high unemployment, and a heavy
dependence on foreign grants and technical assistance. Agriculture,
including fishing, hunting, and forestry, contributes 40% to GDP,
employs 80% of the labor force, and provides most of the exports.
The country is not self-sufficient in food production; rice, the
main staple, accounts for the bulk of imports. The government -
which is hampered by internal po