Micronesia (Federal States of)

The Federated States of Micronesia consist of four states ‐ Chuuk, Kosrae, Pohnpei and Yap ‐ and comprises of more than 600 islands. The islands are in the Micronesian sub‐region of the western Pacific Ocean and together with the islands of Palau are also called Caroline Islands. Some of the islands have high mountains while others are low coral atolls. Mount Nanlaud is the highest point (782 m) of the Federated States and is situated on Pohnpei island.

The climate is hot, humid and rainy throughout the year. Average annual rainfall in Micronesia is approximately 3 800 mm. The wet season takes place between April and September, and the rainfall is relatively high, above 300 mm per month, also from October to December. The rainiest Island is Palikir, which receives almost 4 800 mm of rain annually. The driest islands are the flat atolls, where annual rainfall may stay below 3 000 mm. Average temperatures are very stable, ranging from lows of 22‐25 °C to highs of between 30‐32 °C. The sea in Micronesia is pleasantly warm all year round, at about 29 °C. The area can be affected by tropical cyclones, storm waves, droughts and flooding. -—
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Agriculture and fishing are the main economic activities in Micronesia contributing almost 30 per cent to GDP. Fish represents about 90 per cent of its total exports of goods. The islands also export nuts and vegetable products. Important export destinations include Thailand, China, Japan and Guam. Fishing licenses are also an important source of revenue. Services constitute over 65 per cent of GDP, but tourism is held back by poor infrastructure. -—
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Culture and traditions vary between the four states, but some common cultural features exist. Traditional dances include stick dancing in Pohnpei, Chuuk and Yap, standing dances in Chuuk and sitting dances in Yap. A famous 'Moonlight Dance' is performed in Chuuk during a full moon and only with the permission of the village chief and is one of the very few dances allowing men and women dance together.

Local gastronomic specialties include breadfruit and thinly sliced raw fish with peppery sauce. Chuuk island does not allow the consumption of alcohol. The island of Yap is known for its stone money, called 'Rai' ‐ the most valuable calcite disks are up to four metres in diameter. The most popular sport in Micronesia is baseball. The Federated States of Micronesia have participated in the Olympic Summer Games since 2000.