He said because of the CNMI’s distance from major U.S. markets, residents here have to pay more for products shipped to the islands.
This is why he believes that developing the CNMI’s local products and resources is one way of creating more businesses in the commonwealth.
Agriculture and aquaculture products are potential areas for development, he added.
He said there is a need to reduce the CNMI’s dependence on imported agriculture and aquaculture products while keeping their prices down.
“We need to saturate the local market,” Ada said. “Let us first focus our attention on meeting the needs of local residents before we think of importing our products.”
Ada said business opportunities abound in the CNMI.
Local tourism can still be developed, specifically edu-tourism and medical tourism, he added.
Ada said the CNMI can also host light manufacturing businesses, call centers or data centers.
Air ducts and AC converters for alternative energy can be assembled here, he added.
He said call centers can take advantage of the CNMI’s proximity to Asian countries and time zones.
Ada said Saipan has diverse investment opportunities.
Tinian’s opportunities involve its gaming industry and an increase in U.S. military presence, while Rota can depend on its gaming industry and eco-tourism attractions, he added.
