Changes in economic activities have resulted in a
reemergence of the importance of producing what were once
subsistence foods now as marketable crops. Due to the
geographical logistics of small island states like Yap, there
are times when traditional methods remain the only viable
and sustainable alternative. This paper, based on fieldwork
conducted in Yap State, FSM 2007-2009, looks at how what
were once traditional subsistence agriculture activities in Yap
are reemerging as economic activities. The paper addresses
the impact of markets on the socio-economic well-being of
respondents on Yap proper. Analysis is conducted through a
socio-economic assessment of innovative marketing
techniques, in particular micro-finance. Research was
designed to identify crops currently being produced through
subsistence activities on small and medium farms that are or
have potential for market development. Through stakeholder
input and the development of extension activities linked to
converting subsistence crops to marketable products,
research findings are used to assess needs of small-scale
production in relation to marketing strategies in a way that is
beneficial to local producers.