Taxation Statistics – March Quarter 2025

The Taxation Statistics series is a quarterly publication presenting Value Added Tax (VAT) data for the Cook Islands. The series examines VAT collected on sales of goods and services and income, in relation to purchases of goods and services across all industries. These statistics provide an indicator of economic activity and consumption patterns within the economy.

Key Facts – March Quarter 2025

• The March quarter 2025 recorded a Gross Turnover of $281.5 million across all industries, representing a decline of 9.5 per cent compared with the December quarter 2024 ($311.0 million). However, when compared with the March quarter 2024 ($249.6 million), Gross Turnover increased by 12.8 per cent, indicating continued year-on-year growth.
• Total Value Added Tax (VAT) collected on Sales and Income in March 2025 amounted to $33.0 million, decreasing by 14.8 per cent compared with December 2024 ($38.7 million). Despite the quarterly decline, VAT collections were 11.9 per cent higher than in March 2024, reflecting stronger economic activity compared with the same period last year.
• The quarterly decline this quarter was mainly driven by the Goods-producing industries, which fell by 9.7 per cent. Services sector also fell by 9.5 per cent (from $280.1 million to $253.4 million in turnover), with notable reductions in real estate, trade, and accommodation.
• The graph below illustrates the quarterly trend in Gross Turnover for the Cook Islands from 2022 to 2025. Rarotonga continues to account for the majority of economic activity and VAT collections, while Te Pa Enua shows more variability reflecting its smaller economic base.