Hawaii Economy

Hawaii economy is poised to flourish in the New Economy.

Hawaii, the 50th state in the United States of America, consists of 137 islands strategically located in the heart of Pacific Ocean between mainland USA and Asia. The total land area is 6,423 square miles.

The major islands are Hawaii (commonly referred to as Big Island), Maui, Oahu, Kauai, Molokai, Lanai, Ni'ihau, Kaho'olawe and Hawaii. For administrative purpose these islands are incorporated as Hawaii County (Big Island), Honolulu County (Oahu), Kauai County (Kauai and Ni'ihau) and Maui County (Maui, Molokai, Lanai and Kahoolawe).

The Island of Oahu, also known as Honolulu County, is the most inhabited island in the State of Hawaii. In 2002, Honolulu County held:

• 72% of Hawaii's population
• 69% of Hawaii's private sector establishments
• 71% of Hawaii's available civilian labor
• 72% of Hawaii's private sector employment
  

Direct effect from Tourism represented 24 percent of the state employment and 18 percent of Gross State Product in 2001. Just about 10 percent of the revenues in tourism come from Waikiki which is located in Honolulu County. Major improvements to the east end of Waikiki counting the Kuhio beach project have been completed. With one of the nation's newest convention centers, as well as 36,303 hotel rooms Waikiki is the single largest visitor destination in the state. The latest visitor destination on Oahu, Ko Olina resort, located about 20 minutes west of the airport.