WT/TPR/S/386/Rev.1  
 
21 June 2019 
(19-4218) Page: 1/83 
Trade Policy Review Body   
 
TRADE POLICY REVIEW  
REPORT BY THE SECRET ARIAT  
SAMOA 
Revision  
This report, prepared for the first Trade Policy Review of Samoa, has been drawn up by the WTO 
Secretariat on its own responsibility. The Secretariat has, as required by the Agreement establishing 
the Trade Policy Review Mechanism (Annex 3 of the Marrakesh Agreement Establishing the World 
Trade Organization), sought clarification from Samoa on its trade policies and practices.  
 
Any technical questions arising from this report may be addressed to Masahir o Hayafuji 
(Tel: 022 739 5873); Thomas Friedheim (T el: 02 2 739 5083) and Michael Kolie (T el: 022 739 5931).  
 
Document WT/TPR/G/ 386 contains the policy statement submitted by Samoa.  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Note: This report was drafted in English.  
  WT/TPR/S/386 /Rev.1  • Samoa  
 
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  CONTENTS  
SUMMARY  ................................ ................................ ................................ .......................  6 
1   ECONOMIC ENVIRON MENT  ................................ ................................ .......................  10 
1.1   Main Features of the Economy  ................................ ................................ ...................  10 
1.2   Recent Economic Developments  ................................ ................................ .................  12 
1.3   Developments in Trade and Investment  ................................ ................................ ...... 15 
1.3.1    Trends and patterns in merchandise and services trade  ................................ ..............  15 
1.3.2    Trends and patterns in foreign direct investment (FDI)  ................................ ...............  18 
2   TRADE AND INVEST MENT REGIM ES................................ ................................ ..........  19 
2.1   General Framework  ................................ ................................ ................................ .. 19 
2.2   Trade Policy Formulation and Objectives  ................................ ................................ ...... 19 
2.3   Trade Agreements and Arrangements  ................................ ................................ .........  20 
2.3.1    WTO ................................ ................................ ................................ ....................  20 
2.3.2    Regional and preferential agreements  ................................ ................................ ...... 21 
2.3.2.1    Pacific Island Countries Trade Agreement (PICTA)  ................................ ...................  21 
2.3.2.2    Pacific Agreement on Close r Economic Relations (PACER) Plus  ................................ .. 22 
2.3.3    Preferential agreements  ................................ ................................ .........................  22 
2.3.3.1    South Pacific Regional Trade and Economic Cooperation Agreement (SPARTECA)  ........  22 
2.3.3.2    General System of Preferences (GSP)  ................................ ................................ .... 22 
2.3.3.3    European Union  ................................ ................................ ................................ .. 22 
2.4   Investment Regime  ................................ ................................ ................................ .. 23 
3   TRADE POLICIES A ND PRACTICES BY MEAS URE ................................ .......................  26 
3.1   Measures Directly Affecting Imports  ................................ ................................ ............  26 
3.1.1    Customs procedures, valuation, and requirements  ................................ .....................  26 
3.1.2    Rules of origin  ................................ ................................ ................................ ....... 27 
3.1.3    Tariffs  ................................ ................................ ................................ ..................  27 
3.1.3.1    Applied MFN tariffs  ................................ ................................ ..............................  27 
3.1.3.2    Tariff bindings  ................................ ................................ ................................ .... 29 
3.1.3.3   Preferential tariffs  ................................ ................................ ...............................  30 
3.1.3.4    Tariff exemptions  ................................ ................................ ................................  30 
3.1.4    Other charges affecting imports  ................................ ................................ ...............  30 
3.1.5    Import prohibitions, restrictions, and licensing  ................................ ..........................  33 
3.1.6    Anti-dumping, countervailing, and safeguard measures  ................................ ..............  35 
3.1.7    Other measures affecting imports  ................................ ................................ ............  35 
3.2   Measures Directly Affecting Exports  ................................ ................................ ............  35 
3.2.1    Registration, customs procedures and requirements ................................ ...................  35 
3.2.2    Taxes, charges, and levies  ................................ ................................ ......................  35 
3.2.3    Export prohibitions, restrictions, and licensing  ................................ ...........................  35 
3.2.4    Export support and promotion  ................................ ................................ .................  36 
3.2.5    Export finance, insurance,  and guarantees  ................................ ................................  36 WT/TPR/S/386 /Rev.1  • Samoa  
 
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  3.3   Measures Affecting Production and Trade  ................................ ................................ ..... 36 
3.3.1    Incentives  ................................ ................................ ................................ .............  36 
3.3.2    Standards and other technical requirements  ................................ .............................  37 
3.3.3    Sanitary and phytosanitary requirements  ................................ ................................ .. 38 
3.3.3.1    Food safety  ................................ ................................ ................................ ........  38 
3.3.3.2    Veterinary and phytosanitary measures  ................................ ................................ . 39 
3.3.4    Competition policy and price controls  ................................ ................................ ....... 40 
3.3.4.1    Competition policy  ................................ ................................ ..............................  40 
3.3.4.2    Price controls ................................ ................................ ................................ ...... 41 
3.3.5    State trading, state -owned enterprises, and privatization  ................................ ...........  43 
3.3.5.1    State trading enterp rises ................................ ................................ .....................  43 
3.3.5.2    SOEs and privatization  ................................ ................................ .........................  44 
3.3.6    Government procurement  ................................ ................................ .......................  45 
3.3.7    Intellectual property rights  ................................ ................................ ......................  48 
4   TRADE POLICIES B Y SECTOR  ................................ ................................ ....................  54 
4.1   Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries  ................................ ................................ .............  54 
4.1.1    Agriculture  ................................ ................................ ................................ ............  54 
4.1.1.1    Institutional and legal framework  ................................ ................................ ..........  55 
4.1.1.2    Domestic support  ................................ ................................ ................................  55 
4.1.1.3   Export subsidies  ................................ ................................ ................................ . 55 
4.1.1.4    State -owned enterprises (SOEs)  ................................ ................................ ...........  56 
4.1.2    Forestry  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................  56 
4.1.3    Fisheries  ................................ ................................ ................................ ...............  57 
4.2   Mining and Energy  ................................ ................................ ................................ .... 58 
4.2.1    Mining  ................................ ................................ ................................ ..................  58 
4.2.2    Energy  ................................ ................................ ................................ .................  58 
4.2.2.1    Electricity  ................................ ................................ ................................ ...........  59 
4.2.2.2    Petroleum  ................................ ................................ ................................ ..........  60 
4.3   Manufacturing  ................................ ................................ ................................ ..........  60 
4.4   Services  ................................ ................................ ................................ ..................  61 
4.4.1    Financial services  ................................ ................................ ................................ ... 61 
4.4.1.1    Banking  ................................ ................................ ................................ .............  63 
4.4.1.2    Insurance  ................................ ................................ ................................ ..........  66 
4.4.2    Communication serv ices ................................ ................................ .........................  67 
4.4.2.1    Telecommunications  ................................ ................................ ............................  67 
4.4.2.2    Postal and courier services  ................................ ................................ ...................  69 
4.4.3    Transport  ................................ ................................ ................................ ..............  69 
4.4.3.1    Overview  ................................ ................................ ................................ ...........  69 
4.4.3.2    Maritime transport  ................................ ................................ ..............................  70 
4.4.3.3    Air transport  ................................ ................................ ................................ ....... 70 WT/TPR/S/386 /Rev.1  • Samoa  
 
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  4.4.4    Tourism  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................  72 
5   APPENDIX  TABLES  ................................ ................................ ................................ ... 74 
 
CHARTS  
 
Chart 1.1 Employment by economic activity, June 2018  ................................ ........................  11 
Chart 1.2 Production composition of merchandise trade, 2012 and 2017  ................................ . 16 
Chart 1.3 Direction of merchandise trade 2012 and 2017  ................................ ......................  17 
Chart 1.4 FDI, 2011 -17 ................................ ................................ ................................ .... 18 
Chart 3.1 Distribution of MFN tariff rates, 2018  ................................ ................................ .... 28 
Chart 3.2 Average tariff rates by HS section, 2018  ................................ ...............................  29 
Chart 4.1 Fish catch and exports of fish, 2012 -17 ................................ ................................  57 
 
TABLES  
 
Table 1.1 GDP by economic activity, 2012 -18 ................................ ................................ ...... 10 
Table 1.2 Selected economic indicators, 2012 -18 ................................ ................................ . 12 
Table 1.3 Balance of payments, 2012 -18 ................................ ................................ ............  14 
Table 1.4 Trade in services, 2012 -18 ................................ ................................ ..................  18 
Table 2.1 Samoa's merchandise trade with PICTA and SPARTECA partners, 2012 -17 ................  21 
Table 3.1 Structure of the tariff schedule, 2012 and 2018  ................................ .....................  28 
Table 3.2 Further reduction of the bound tariffs until 2022  ................................ ....................  29 
Table 3.3 Applied MFN tariffs and bound tariffs  ................................ ................................ .... 30 
Table 3.4 Imported and domestic products subject to excise tax  ................................ ............  31 
Table 3.5 Products covered by th e General Price Order, 2018  ................................ ................  41 
Table 3.6 Public trading bodies  ................................ ................................ ..........................  44 
Table 3.7 Mutual and beneficial bodies (March 2017)  ................................ ............................  44 
Table 3.8 Public procurement methods and thresholds  ................................ ..........................  47 
Table 3.9 Summary of protection of IPRs, 201 8 ................................ ................................ ... 48 
Table 3.10 IPR applications and registrations  ................................ ................................ ....... 52 
Table 4.1 Trade in agricultural products (WTO definition), 2012 -17 ................................ ........  54 
Table 4.2 Trade in forestry products, 2012 -17 ................................ ................................ ..... 56 
Table 4.3 Samoa's licensing regime for offshore tu na fishery  ................................ .................  58 
Table 4.4 Electricity tariff rates, 2018  ................................ ................................ .................  60 
Table 4.5 Financial system structure ................................ ................................ ...................  62 
Table 4.6 Commercial bank loans to the private sector  ................................ .........................  64 
Table 4.7 Financial soundness indicators, 2013/14 -December 2017  ................................ ........  64 
Table 4.8 Supervisory prudential requirements by the CBS, 2018  ................................ ..........  65 
Table 4.9 Telecommunications licensees, October 2018  ................................ ........................  68 
Table 4.10 Arrivals, by purpose of visit, 2011-17 ................................ ................................ . 72 
Table 4.11 Arrivals, by purpose of visit and source market, 2013  ................................ ...........  72 WT/TPR/S/386 /Rev.1  • Samoa  
 
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APPENDIX TABLES  
 
Table A1.1 Merchandise exports by destination, 2012 -17 ................................ ......................  74 
Table A1.2 Merchandise imports by origin, 2012 -17 ................................ .............................  75 
Table A1.3 Merchandise exports, by group of products, 2012 -17 ................................ ............  76 
Table A1.4 Merchandise imports, by  group of products, 2012 -17 ................................ ...........  78 
 
 
Table A2.1 Reserved and restricted activities in the foreign investment regime  ........................  80 
Table A2.2 WTO notifications, 2012 -18 ................................ ................................ ...............  82 
 
 
Table A3.1 Tariff summary, 2018  ................................ ................................ .......................  83 
 
 
  WT/TPR/S/386 /Rev.1  • Samoa  
 
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  SUMMARY  
1. A small archipelago in the South Pacific with close to 200,000  inhabitants, Samoa is a middle -
income country with a per capita income of about USD 4,100 in 2017. Tourism, agric ulture, fisheries 
and trade services are the main pillars of the economy. Remittances and foreign aid also play an 
important role in sustaining the economy, which is vulnerable to natural disasters.  
2. Economic growth was uneven in the period under review (2 012-18), averaging 1.9%, as 
Samoa sought to recover from the devastation caused by category 5 Cyclone Evan in 2012. The 
economy received a boost from reconstruction efforts and international events  hosted by Samoa. 
However, the closure in 2017 of the large st manufacturing plant (producing automobile wire 
harnesses for export to Australia) significantly weakened economic growth.   
3. Samoa's f iscal balance improved from a deficit to a small  surplus in 2017 -18, as fiscal policy 
was geared towards broadening the tax base and curbing  reliance on foreign aid. The debt -to-GDP 
ratio increased from 51.6% in 2012/13 to 55.3% in 2014/15, before moderating slightly in 2016/17 
and 2017/18. Inflation remained below the Central Bank's target of 3%  during most of the review 
period. 
4. Samoa has a large merchandise trade deficit, and the country has become increasingly 
dependent on food imports. Its merchandise i mports increased from USD 346 million in 2012 to  USD 
388 million 2014,  driven by capital goods for reconstruction follow ing Cyclone Evan , after which 
imports declined to USD 356 million in 2017. Merchandise exports dropped from US D 76 million in 
2012 to US D 44 million in 2017, largely owing to the factory closure. Tuna has emerged as Samoa's 
main export product, contributing almost  30% to merchandise exports  in 2017 . Its main trading 
partners are  New Zealand, Singapore, Australia, the United States, China and Fiji.  Samoa is a net 
exporter of services (mainly travel services ), which account for over 80% of total ex ports. Against 
the background of rising services exports, the current account  deficit moved into surplus in 2017.  
5. Samoa grants at least MFN treatment to all its trading partners.  It is a party  to the Pacific 
Island Countries Trade Agreement (PICTA) , grant ing duty -free preferential treatment to almost all 
products from participating Forum Island Countries, subject to rules of origin. Samoa is a beneficiary 
of non -reciprocal preferences granted by Australia and New Zealand under t he South Pacific Regional 
Trade and Economic Co -operation Agreement (SPARTECA). It is a signatory to the Pacific Agreement 
on Closer Economic Relations (PACER) Plus, which has not yet entered into force. Samoa graduated 
from the status of least developed country on 1 January 2014 . It remains eligible to use other non -
LDC specific GSP schemes. Samoa is in the process of joining the Interim Economic Partnership 
Agreement between the European Union and the Pacific States.  
6. This is Samoa's first Trade Policy Review. A WTO Member since May 2012, its participation in 
the WTO is facilitated by the Pacific Island Forum Secretariat Office in Geneva. The WTO Agreement 
on Trade Facilitation was accepted by Samoa on 21 April 2016 , and two notification s regarding its 
Category A , B and C  commitments  were submitted. Samoa has otherwise provided few notifications 
to the WTO , and has outstanding notifications in areas such as domestic support and export subsidies 
in agriculture, and import licensing procedures. Samoa has never been a party to, or a third  party 
in, any WTO dispute settlement procedure.   
7. Responsibility for trade policy formulation lies with the Trade Division of the Ministry of Foreign 
Affairs and Trade (MFAT). Trade negotiations are currently led by the Minister of Commerce, Industry 
and Labour (MCIL). The Samoa n development strategy aims at boosting productivity and 
strengthening the country's resilience to shocks for sustainable economic growth. Samoa is in the 
process of implementing its eighth development plan (Strategy for the Develop ment of Samoa 
2016/17 –2019/20) complemented by detailed sectoral plans. The Trade, Commerce and 
Manufacturing Sector Plan, which is based upon a Diagno stic Trade Integration Study, provides for  
a range of reforms of the regulatory framework affect ing trade and investment . 
8. Samoa's foreign investment regime is governed by the Foreign Investment Act, 2000  (as 
amended ) and implementing regulations.  The legal framework does not apply to the offshore 
financial services sector , which is  overseen by the Samoa International Finance Authority (SIFA). 
Samoa is relatively open to foreign investment, albeit with a few exceptions . "Reserved " activities 
closed to foreign investment include the food retail trade , transportation (buses, taxis, rental cars ), WT/TPR/S/386 /Rev.1  • Samoa  
 
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  saw mills, traditional ("elei") garment design and printing , and traditional Samoan accommodation 
("fale") and budget accommodation.  "Restricted " activities cover certain services, and the processing 
of coconut  oil and nonu fruit (used as a traditional herbal medicine); for these activities, joint 
venture/incorporation requirements apply. Commercial fishing is subject to a 40% foreign -ownership 
cap.   
9. Samoa has adopted a new Customs Act and customs regulations, and upgraded its clearance 
procedures to ASYCUDA++. Customs valuation is implemented through the Customs Valuation 
Regulations, 2011, based on the WTO Customs Valuation Agreement. Samoa has no non -preferential 
rules of origin.  
10. The 2018 customs tariff has four bands (duty-free; 5%; 8%; and 20%) with a few exceptions  
in terms of higher tariffs and non -ad valorem  tariffs. The average ap plied MFN tariff  was 11.4% in 
2018, unchanged since Samoa's accession to the WTO. MFN tariffs on agricultural products (WTO 
definition) averaged 15. 0% in 2018, ranging from zero to 90%. MFN tariffs on non -agricultural 
products averaged 10.7% in 2018, ranging from zero to 50%. Samoa has bound all tariffs, and 
generally there is a gap between the bound rates and the applied tariffs . In 2018, the applied MFN 
rates of 19 tariff lines exceed ed their respective bound rates , including 9  tariff lines that were 
increased pursuant to the  Customs Tariff Amendment Act , 2018 . No other duties or charges (ODCs) 
are imposed at the border. Samoa has no legislation on trade contingency measures, and has never 
used anti -dumping, countervailing, or safeguard measures.  
11. Imported and domestic goods and services are subject to a Value -Added Goods and Services 
Tax (VAGST) at the standard rate of 15%. Excise taxes are levied, inter alia , on certain food items; 
alcoholic beverages; tobacco products; fuel; and certain vehicles. In 2018, excise taxes  were 
increased on food items with a high sugar or high fat content to encourage healthier diets.   
12. Samoa maintains several import restrictions and prohibitions for health, safety or 
environmental reasons or to meet its international obligations. The impor t prohibition on turkey tails, 
which was applied on the grounds of health concerns, was lifted in 2013. Imports of l eft-hand drive 
vehicles are prohibited for  traffic safety  reasons  (Samoa is a right -hand drive country), subject to a 
monthly import quota o f 100 units ( vehicles for private use, pick -up trucks and some special purpose 
vehicles ). An import prohibition applies to second -hand vehicles over 10 years old. The local 
production and importation of liquor with an alcohol percentage greater than 40% wa s prohibited in 
2018.   
13. In general, registration formalities for exports of goods for commercial purposes are similar 
to those for imports. Samoa does not levy any export taxes. Exports of logs and timber, sea 
cucumbers, and live corals are prohibited for e nvironmental reasons. Support for export activities is 
provided through import duty concession schemes. There are no governmental export finance, 
insurance or guarantee schemes.  Exporters are required to repatriate export revenues.  
14. At present, Samoa has fe w technical regulations and there is no single standardization body. 
The development of technical regulations falls under the responsibility  of various ministries and 
agencies , including the MCIL. The Competition and Consumer Act, 2016  provides for the ado ption of 
product standards by regulation. A new technical regulation on energy -efficiency standards  came 
into force in 2018. In 2015, Samoa adopted a new Food Act, 2015, including its implementing 
regulations and several Codex -based standards. Samoa has yet to notify its recent TBT and SPS 
measures.  
15. Samoa has reformed its competition regime with the ado ption of a new Competition and 
Consumer Act in 201 6. Under this legislation, price controls, still in place on basic food and household 
items, are to be lifted after a transition period. The State continues to play an important role in the 
economy, with st ate-owned enterprises operating in sectors such as utilities, ports and maritime 
transport, and airports and air transport. A legal framework is in place to strengthen the performance 
and accountability of state -owned enterprises.  
16. The conduct of government  procurement in Samoa is based on the Public Finance Management 
Act, 2001 and other legislation. They provide for the establishment of a Government Tenders Board, 
which is supported by the Procurement Division under the Ministry of Finance. Within the pres cribed 
limits, the Board is responsible for, inter alia : opening and awarding tenders for goods, works and WT/TPR/S/386 /Rev.1  • Samoa  
 
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  general services. Samoa has an open government procurement regime, where open tendering is the 
norm (67% of total procurement in 2017/18) and no pref erences are granted to domestic companies. 
Alternative methods of procurement are allowed under limited c onditions .  
17. The institutional and legal framework for the protection of intellectual property rights (IPRs) 
remains substantially un changed since Samoa 's WTO accession, and covers the main areas of the 
TRIPS Agreement. IPRs in Samoa are protected under, inter alia : the Copyright Act, 1998; the 
Copyright Amendment Act, 2011: the Intellectual Property Act, 2011; and the Intellectual Property 
Amendment Act,  2018. Responsibility for the formulation and implementation of intellectual property 
policy rests with the Registries of Companies and Intellectual Property Division of the MCIL, in 
collaboration with relevant stakeholders. It receives applications from d omestic and international 
applicants, and grants or denies IPRs. Samoa aims to further reform its IPR regime  through its 2012 
National Intellectual Property Strategy  and provide better protection to Samoan traditional 
knowledge and cultural expressions . Samoa is a party to several IPR -related international 
conventi ons and agreements. In December 2018, the Government deposited its instrument of 
accession to the Madrid Protocol . 
18. The agriculture sector contributed 7.7% to GDP in 2017/18. Taro and other root crops are 
Samoa's main export commodities ; however,  agricultural production is otherwise largely  for 
subsistence.  Government support has been mainly in the form of Green Box gener al services and 
input subsidies to subsistence farmers (such as seeds and planting material), and also in response 
to natural disasters.  The fisheries sector contributed 3% to GDP in 2017/18. Samoa adopted a new 
Fisheries Management Act, 2016, which is com plemented by a management plan and licensing 
regime for the important tuna fishery sector. Commercial fishing enterprises may benefit from 
incentives in the form of tariff exemptions on fishing gear, bait, and equipment.   
19. The state-owned Electric Power Co rporation establishes and maintains the infrastructure for 
the transmission and distribution of electric power , and purchases electricity from independent power 
producers. The Office of the Regulator ( for the telecom, electricity, broadcasting and postal sectors ) 
is responsible for setting  and reviewing tariffs charged by electricity licensees . The current electricity 
tariff structure comprises: a debt charge, a usage charge, and an energy charge. Based on monthly 
cost movements, the Regulator revie ws and approves the energy charge on a monthly basis.  
20. The ma nufacturing sector contributed 7.6% to GDP in 2017/18, down from 11% in 2012/13. 
Key subsectors include the food and beverage,  tobacco, and clothing  industries . Government support 
is provided mai nly in the form of import duty concessions on inputs, raw materials and capital goods, 
which are available to poultry farmers, the fishing and food industries, manufacturers of handicrafts 
and indigenous garments, and the aviation and tourism industries.  
21. Samoa's  services sector contributes to over two thirds of GDP , led by trade services (33% of 
GDP in 2017/18) . Under the GATS, Samoa has made specific commitments in some 70 subsectors: 
these include business services, communications, educational and constr uction services , on which 
open and non -discriminatory regimes have been scheduled, and financial services, tourism and 
travel related services , where certain modes of supply are unbound or subject to limitations.   
22. The Central Bank of Samoa is the main regu lator of the financial services sector. The main 
legislation regulating the sector includes the Central Bank of Samoa Act, 2015, the Financial 
Institution Act, 1996, the Insurance Act, 2007, and the Money Laundering Prevention Act, 2007. 
With regard to ban king services, while c ommercial banks are well capitalized , natural disasters 
continue to pose a risk. The partial withdrawal of correspondent bank relationships by global banks 
has stabilized in recent years. Prudential standards apply equally to foreign and domestic banks, 
and are established  in line with the Basel Core Principles . A strategy on anti -money laundering and 
countering the financing of terrorist activities  is in place.  
23. The main piece of legislation governing the telecommunications sector is the 
Telecommunications Act, 2005. There is no foreign ownership restriction in the sector. The Office of 
the Regulator is responsible for regulatory functions, such as licensing and frequency management.  WT/TPR/S/386 /Rev.1  • Samoa  
 
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  24. Ports, a irports  and road networks  are essential for Samoa's economic and social development , 
given the country's remoteness. The authorities overseeing the sector include the Ministry of Works, 
Transport and Infrastructure, the Land Transport Authority, the Samoa Port Authority, the Samoa 
Shipping Company, and the Samoa Airport Authority. Maritime transport is regulated by the Shipping 
Act, 1998 and its Regulations. The primary legislation governing civil aviation in Samoa is the Civil 
Aviation Act, 1998 and its Regulations. The National Infrastructure Strat egic Plan  and the Transport 
Sector Plan are the main policy documents for achieving the Government 's objectives in the transport 
sector . Samoa has signed bilateral agreements with several countries , including Australia and China; 
and is a signatory to the Pacific Island s Air Service Agreement (PIASA), which provides for the 
establishment of a si ngle aviation market . Samoa  has withdrawn  from the Multilateral Agreement 
on the Liberalization of International Air Transportation (MALIAT) , effective 9 March 2019.  
25. Tourism is vital for Samoa, with export earnings equivalent to about 20% of GDP . The Tourism 
Development Act, 2012 is the main piece of legislation regulating tourism and related activities. The 
Samoa Tourism Authority (STA)  administers the licensing  regime for the sector. Investment in the 
sector is encouraged through import duty exemption s for imported materials  
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  1  ECONOMIC ENVIRONMENT  
1.1  Main Features of the Economy  
1.1.  With a land area of around 2,800 km2, Samoa is a small archipelago in the South Pacific. It 
consists of two main islands (Savai 'i and Upolu) and several smaller islands. Its approximately 
196,440 (2017) inhabitants are concentrated on the two main islands.  
1.2.  Over the last two decades, the authorities launched successive reform programmes that , inter 
alia, promoted macroeconomic stability, and increased access to health and education. During the 
two decades, the country experienced an important expansion in la bour intensive sectors , such as 
agriculture, including fisheries. Furthermore, infrastructure improved, and remittances and tourism 
also boomed in the same period. Against this background, the country experienced substantial 
economic progress; its gross national income per capita increased steadily , from USD 1,600 in the 
early 2000s to USD 4,100 in 2017.1 
1.3.  Following years of strong economic and social performance, which were marked by a relatively 
high-income  level and improved human capital (two of the thr ee criteria used to classify developing 
countries as least -developed), Samoa graduated from least developed country (LDC) status , 
effective 1 January 2014. However, the country continues to face vulnerability to natural and 
economic shocks, as well as chal lenges regarding social transformation.  
1.4.  While extreme poverty is rare in Samoa, the country faces a number of important social 
challenges , including the accessibility of public  services by the poorest category of the population, 
and the high prevalence of non-communicable diseases (such as diabetes and heart disease) and 
related social costs.  
1.5.  Samoa has a small, relatively open economy , driven by agriculture, fisheries, tourism, 
remittances and other services. Since the closure of a factory producing automo bile harnesses for 
export to Australia (Section 4.3), the manufacturing sector mainly processes agricultural products , 
such as coconut , and tuna.  
1.6.  The services sector is the largest contributor to GDP (with some two  thirds of GDP) (Table  1.1).2 
In addition , it provides employment to some 88% of the working population (Chart  1.1). Tourism is 
Samoa 's top foreign exchange earner, and New Zealand and Australia are Samoa 's largest sources 
of tourism income.  
Table 1.1 GDP by economic activity, 2012 -18 
  2012/13  2013/14  2014/15  2015/16  2016/17  2017/18  
GDP by economic activit y at current prices (%)      
Agriculture  7.3 6.9 6.4 6.8 8.0 7.7 
Fishing  2.3 2.6 3.1 2.8 3.1 3.0 
Food and beverage manufacturing  3.6 4.0 3.8 4.0 3.8 3.6 
Other manufacturing  7.1 6.6 6.0 5.7 5.9 4.0 
Construction  10.5 11.6 9.7 10.2 9.1 9.8 
Electricity and water supply  4.4 4.4 4.8 3.9 3.7 3.9 
Services  65.9 65.2 67.4 67.9 67.9 69.4 
  Trade  32.1 32.2 31.5 30.9 31.9 32.8 
  Accommodation and restaurants  1.7 1.4 1.6 2.1 2.0 2.4 
  Transport  3.3 3.2 4.5 5.0 4.7 4.4 
  Communication  4.1 3.7 4.5 4.8 3.9 4.2 
  Public administration  7.6 7.7 7.8 8.0 7.9 8.4 
  Financial services  3.8 3.9 3.9 4.4 4.7 4.0 
  Business services  3.2 3.0 3.1 2.5 2.4 2.6 
  Ownership of dwellings  5.6 5.6 5.5 5.2 4.9 4.8 
  Personal and other services  4.6 4.5 5.0 5.2 5.5 5.8 
Less: enterprise share of FISIM  -1.2 -1.2 -1.2 -1.4 -1.5 -1.3 
                                                
1 World Bank statistical information. Viewed at : 
https://data.worldbank.org/indicator/NY.GNP.PCAP.CD?locations=WS . 
2 The authorities indicated that there are ongoing efforts with a view to improving the quality of core 
statist ics on economic activities.  WT/TPR/S/386 /Rev.1  • Samoa  
 
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    2012/13  2013/14  2014/15  2015/16  2016/17  2017/18  
GDP by economic activit y at constant 2009 prices (% change)     
Agriculture  2.0 11.1 -11.3 -6.1 17.7 -6.2 
Fishing  -17.9 3.5 50.8 47.3 -13.1 -20.0 
Food and beverage manufacturing  -8.7 5.2 -7.5 12.7 5.2 1.3 
Other manufacturing  1.2 -7.3 -7.2 2.6 7.0 -31.4 
Construction  -6.8 11.4 -11.6 12.3 -11.1 11.1 
Electricity and water supply  5.6 1.4 13.6 -2.8 5.9 4.0 
Services  -1.1 -1.1 5.1 6.9 3.4 3.5 
  Trade  2.5 1.2 0.2 6.7 6.8 3.5 
  Accommodation and restaurants  -17.1 -15.4 12.1 37.2 1.7 13.9 
  Transport  -24.6 -1.7 37.3 22.2 -3.3 -5.2 
  Communication  11.9 -9.3 19.0 7.9 -12.5 12.0 
  Public administration  1.8 0.3 1.5 1.3 -0.9 4.6 
  Financial services  15.2 -0.9 3.3 4.9 6.8 -9.0 
  Business services  -9.2 -10.6 9.4 -9.0 2.4 9.7 
  Ownership of dwellings  0.6 0.6 0.6 0.6 0.6 0.6 
  Personal and other services  -15.4 -1.4 13.8 11.7 11.0 7.9 
Less: enterprise share of FISIM  15.2 -0.9 3.3 4.9 6.8 -9.0 
Note:  The fiscal year in Samoa is from 1 July through 30 June.  
Source:  Central Bank of Samoa online information.  
Chart 1.1 Employment by economic activity, June 2018  
 
 
 
Source:  WTO Secretariat calculations, based on data provided by the authorities  
1.7.  Samoa faces a number of  challenges with respect to its economic development. Its 
susceptibility to natural disasters , remoteness, and the size of its domestic market remain 
impediments to  business development.  
1.8.  Fiscal policy is under the responsibility of the Ministry of Finance  (MoF). Samoa 's fiscal stance 
is geared towards gradual consolidation , to slowly lower debt, and to contain the budget deficit in 
the medium -term within 3.5% of GDP. In the past, the authorities have also sought to broaden the 
tax base and reduce operational expenses. Given the vulnerabilities the country faces, the fiscal 
framework is aimed at ensuring  resilience to natural disasters. A review is undertaken on a regular 
basis to ensure an efficient tax policy.  
1.9.  The Central Bank of Samoa (CBS) is responsible for the formulation and implementation of 
monetary policy. Its main objective is to promote sustainable real ec onomic growth by maintaining 
price stability, international reserves viability and a sound financial system. The CBS sets the 
inflation target, currently at 3%.  
WT/TPR/S/386 /Rev.1  • Samoa  
 
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  1.10.   Regarding its exchange rate policy, the CBS seeks to ensure that export -oriented industries 
remain competitive in overseas markets , whilst at the same time minimizing imported inflation (the 
main determinant of the country 's inflation). The exchange rate of the local currency, the Tala (WST), 
is pegged to a trade and payments weighted basket of cur rencies of its major trading partners. The 
basket is reviewed periodically to ensure that exchange rates are in line with changing economic 
and market conditions. It is based on Samoa 's distribution of merchandise trade and tourism 
earnings and  is reviewed  annually to reflect changes in trade and payment patterns between Samoa 
and its major trading partners. It comprises the currencies of the United States, New Zealand, 
Australia and the European Union.  
1.11.   According to the IMF 's 2017 annual report on exchange  arrangements and exchange 
restrictions, Samoa 's exchange rate regime is defined as a conventional peg. With regard to 
exchange control, the country maintains a system that is free of restrictions on payments and 
transfers for current international transac tions. The authorities indicate that the only area in which 
prior CBS approval is sought relates to capital account transactions.  
1.12.   A coordination framework is in place between the M oF and the CBS , at both a strategic and 
an operational level. To this end, memoranda of understandings (MoUs) between the CBS and the 
MOF have been signed .  
1.2  Recent Economic Developments  
1.13.   During the review period, the Strategy for the Development of Samoa (SDS) 2012 -2016, and  
its successor from 2016/2017 to 2019/2020 , served as one  of main guiding documents for the 
Government 's policies for economic development. The SDS was adopted with a view to boosting the 
country 's productivity for sustainable development, revitalizing growth, and ensuring buffering 
mechanisms to protect the loc al economy from the effects of economic crises. The SDS translates 
into more detailed sectoral plans developed by ministries and agencies (Sections 2 and 4). 
Additionally, the authorities state that several poverty alleviation projects with gender consider ations 
were implemented in rural areas to improve the living standard of the poorest populations.  
1.14.   In December 2012, Samoa was hit by Cyclone Evan, which caused considerable damage and 
losses. According to the Government 's Post -Disaster Needs Assessment on Cyclone Evan 2012, the 
disaster cost an estimated USD 203.9 million in terms of damaged physical assets, production losses 
and higher production costs caused by impracticable infrastructures. Real GDP declined by 1.9% 
over the fiscal year 2012/2013 (Table 1.2), reflecting, inter alia , the decline of value -added in the 
services sector, mainly in tourism (hotel s and restaurants, and transport). Fishing and agri -food 
industries also suffered considerably. The authorities responded, inter alia,  with a fiscal st imulus and 
Central Bank lending to non -bank financial institutions.  
Table 1.2 Selected economic indicators, 2012 -18 
  2012/13  2013/14  2014/15  2015/16  2016/17  2017/18  
GDP       
Real GDP annual growth (%)  -1.9 1.4 1.5 7.2 2.7 0.7 
GDP per capita at current market 
prices (WST)  9,681.8  9,772.6  10,111.4  10,558.4  10,878.6  11,221.7  
GDP per capita at current market 
prices (USD)  4,231.5  4,203.2  4,155.9  4,040.7  4,288.0  4,454.8  
Current GDP (WST million)  1,838.9  1,870.1  1,949.2  2,056.0  2,133.8  2,210.9  
Current GDP (USD million)  803.7  804.3  801.2  786.9  841.1  877.7  
Money and credit (% change)        
Broad money (M2), end -period  -0.8 18.7 0.6 7.1 7.8 16.5 
Net domestic assets  9.1 1.9 23.6 13.6 2.8 -2.3 
Banking system 's credit: private 
sector, end -period  1.2 3.0 12.7 13.9 9.0 -0.7 
Prices and interest rates        
Inflation (CPI, % change, period 
average)  -0.2 -1.2 1.9 0.1 1.3 3.7 
Commercial bank deposit rate  
(%, period average)  2.66 3.03 2.77 2.38 2.45 2.75 
Commercial bank lending rate  
(%, period average)  10.07  10.23  9.68 9.35 8.82 8.85 WT/TPR/S/386 /Rev.1  • Samoa  
 
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    2012/13  2013/14  2014/15  2015/16  2016/17  2017/18  
Exchange rate        
WST/USD, period average  2.288  2.325  2.433  2.613  2.537  2.519  
Nominal effective exchange rate  
(% change, period average)  1.7 -0.3 -0.2 -0.02 0.2 -0.02 
Real effective exchange rate  
(% change, period average)  -3.6 -3.3 0.5 -1.2 -0.4 1.7 
Fiscal balance (% of GDP)        
Total revenue  26.7 29.7 27.4 29.0 28.9 29.2 
   Current revenue  24.1 25.3 25.3 26.8 27.0 26.4 
       Taxes  22.1 23.0 22.7 24.2 24.3 23.8 
       Other revenues  2.0 2.3 2.6 2.6 2.8 2.6 
    Grants  2.6 4.4 2.1 2.2 1.9 2.8 
Total expenditure  30.5 35.0 31.3 29.4 30.0 29.1 
   Current expenditure  26.1 28.3 27.0 24.5 23.0 23.3 
Net a cquisition of non -financial 
assets  4.4 6.6 4.3 4.9 7.0 5.8 
Current surplus/deficit (including 
grants)  0.6 1.4 0.4 4.5 5.9 5.9 
Overall surplus/deficit  -3.8 -5.3 -3.9 -0.4 -1.1 0.1 
Financing:        
   External financing  3.7 2.8 2.3 0.4 0.1 1.2 
   Domestic financing  1.6 1.3 -2.1 -0.9 -1.8 0.4 
External sector (% of GDP, unless otherwise indicated)  
Current account balance  -1.7 -8.5 -2.7 -4.5 -1.8 2.3 
Net merchandise trade  -35.0 -38.5 -36.7 -34.4 -32.2 -33.4 
   Merchandise exports  3.4 3.1 3.5 4.7 4.5 4.1 
   Merchandise imports  38.4 41.6 40.1 39.1 36.7 37.5 
Services balance  13.2 13.4 15.8 15.4 16.9 18.8 
Capital account  2.0 7.5 4.5 3.5 5.1 3.4 
Financial account  -1.9 -2.7 -3.5 -1.9 0.6 0.2 
   Direct investment  -1.2 -2.0 -3.4 -0.8 1.0 -1.7 
Balance  of payments  -1.8 2.0 3.2 -2.1 1.3 4.8 
Remittances (WST million)  419.3  392.0  418.5  391.3  405.2  502.7  
Gross official international reserves 
(end-period)  322.6  352.3  335.8  284.9  312.8  422.7  
   in months of imports  5.5 5.4 5.1 4.3 4.8 6.1 
Total external debt (USD million, 
end-period)  414.5  415.6  443.2  398.7  401.2  434.3  
   in % of GDP  51.6 51.7 55.3 50.7 47.7 49.5 
Source:  Samoa Bureau of Statistics online information; CBS online information; IMF online information; and data 
provided by the authorities.  
1.15.   In 2013/2014, the tourism industry continued to underperform , reflecting the lingering effects 
of Cyclone Evan. However, th e economy picked up  slightly , supported by good performance in 
agriculture, fishing, and manufacturing; the Government provided financial support to farmers 
through the Agriculture and Fisheries Cyclone Recovery Programme (AFCRP), which was completed 
in 2016, and the Samoa Agriculture Competitiveness Enhancement Project (SACEP)  (Section 4.1) . 
GDP grew further in 2014/2015, and its growth rate significantly accelerated in 2015/2016 to reach 
7.1%, boosted by buoyant construction activities, following the laun ch of several reconstruction and 
rehabilitation works. Samoa 's economic performance was further supported by rapid expansion in 
construction, commerce and transportation services , related to preparations for the U nited Nations  
Small Island Developing State s (SIDS) Conference in September 2014 and the Commonwealth  Youth 
Games in September 2015. After the temporary spike in 2015/2016, growth moderated in 
2016/2017, due partly to the negative impact of the closure of the Yazaki manufacturing plant3 in 
August 2 017 and subdued exports, including fish exports, but it remained robust , at 2.7%, driven 
by services, manufacture and agriculture. GDP growth further moderated in 2017/18, as the country 
was hit by Cyclone Gita.  
1.16.   During the review period, inflation was kep t under control , and the rate remained well below 
the authorities ' target of 3% until 2016/2017, reflecting stable oil prices and good performance in 
agriculture and food supply. While prices contracted slightly over the period s 2012/2013 and 
2013/2014, a noticeable hike was recorded in 2014/2015 and 2016/2017 due to a drop in output in 
agriculture and higher prices of locally -produced food. In 2017/2018, inflation increased further, and 
overshot the CBS 3% target, reflecting high oil prices and the negativ e effects of Cyclone Gita on 
                                                
3 Yazaki was producing automobile parts including automotive wire harnesses; it was one of the largest 
manufacturing employer and a major contributor to the country's GDP in Samoa in recent years.  WT/TPR/S/386 /Rev.1  • Samoa  
 
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  agriculture. Regarding the exchange rate, after a steady depreciation trend against the U.S. dollar 
since 2012, the Tala appreciated in 2016/17.  
1.17.   During the review period, the CBS kept its policy rate close to zero, and bank liq uidity 
remained high. According to the IMF, the transmission mechanism for monetary policy is weak , due 
to a lack of competition in commercial banks, weakness in some bank balance sheets, and structural 
impediments to finance (Section 4.4. 1). Despite narrowing during recent years, the interest spread 
remained high over the review period, and banks were reluctant to lend , as non -performing loans 
averaged some 5% (Section 4.4. 1.1); remittance cost s also remained high , above 5% on average. 
Accordi ng to the authorities, in the context of recurrent natural disasters and associated high risks, 
some public financial institutions have engaged in lending activities to assist with stimulating credit , 
mainly in agriculture, and to small and medium enterpri ses. 
1.18.   On the fiscal front, the Government pursued a prudent policy under the SDS 2012 -2016. Tax 
revenue averaged some 23% of GDP over the review period.4 Grants remained important, which 
reflects the reliance of Samoa 's economy on foreign development aid (Table 1.2).  
1.19.   Total expenditure reached 35% of GDP in 2013/14 , due to reconstruction efforts related to 
Cyclone Evan damage, a stimulus package to farmers,  and preparations for the SIDS  Conference . 
As a consequence, the overall fiscal deficit (as a percentage of GDP) worsened , from 3.8% in 
2012/2013 to 5.3% in 2013/2014, before a steady improvement, which led to a slight surplus in 
2017/2018 (Table 1.2). The  Government has undertaken reviews to improve Samoa 's taxation 
regime and procedures , with a view to broadening the tax base. According to the IMF, the review 
suggests remov ing various tax concessions, such as the tourism tax credit scheme, and  duty 
conces sions; and raising excise taxes for a list of items (Section 3.1.4).  
1.20.   Samoa 's debt management strategy is anchored in a target ratio of 50% of GDP. However, 
the country faces challenges from recurrent natural disasters, which lead systematically to addition al 
government expenditures. For example, the 2009 tsunami and Cyclone Evan increased the debt 
level by 10% and 5% of GDP, respectively. During most years of the review period, the debt ratio 
remained over the target level. Debt-to-GDP increased from 51.6% in 2012/13 to 55.3% in 
2014/2015, before moderating slightly in 2016/2017 and 2017/2018. According to the IMF, Samoa 
is assessed to be at high risk of debt distress in the medium term, given the risk of natural disasters.5  
1.21.   The current account remained in deficit during most years of the review period, largely driven 
by the merchandise trade deficit (Table 1.3). The deficit worsened markedly in 2013/2014 due to 
high imports of capital goods for the reconstruction after Cyclone Evan damages, preparations for  
the UN SIDS Conference, and the upcoming sporting events. However, a noticeable improvement 
was registered over the following years, leading up to a surplus in 2017/2018, as exports of services 
firmed up. The surplus of the services account also increased  further.  
Table 1.3 Balance of payments, 2012 -18  
(USD million)  
  2012/13  2013/14  2014/15  2015/16  2016/17  2017/18  
Current account  -13.9  -68.7  -21.4  -35.6  -14.7  20.3  
   Goods and services balance  -175.0  -201.5  -167.1  -149.0  -128.5  -127.4  
       Goods balance  -281.4  -309.5  -293.8  -270.3  -270.4  -292.7  
           Exports  27.4  24.9  27.8  36.9  38.0  36.3  
           Imports  308.9  334.3  321.6  307.3  308.4  328.9  
       Service s balance  106.4  108.0  126.7  121.3  141.9  165.3  
           Exports  194.6  194.8  195.0  206.0  224.0  252.8  
               Transportation  8.9  7.7  6.3  6.2  11.8  12.9  
               Travel  138.4  136.2  142.8  147.4  150.9  180.0  
           Imports  88.3  86.8  68.4  84.7  82.1  87.5  
               Transportation  46.1  41.3  31.4  30.5  30.1  35.1  
               Travel  6.5  1.7  1.7  1.3  2.4  2.3  
   Primary income  -27.4  -29.8  -16.0  -18.6  -26.8  -29.5  
       Credit  15.9  17.5  13.0  7.6  7.2  4.8  
           Compensation of employees  10.4  11.2  7.2  3.5  4.0  4.8  
                                                
4 Customs duties represented 18 % of total tax revenue in 2017/18.  
5 IMF online information. Viewed at: 
https://www.i mf.org/en/Publications/CR/Issues/2018/06/04/Samoa -2018-Article -IV-Consultation -Press -
Release -Staff-Report -Staff-Statement -and-Statement -45934 .  WT/TPR/S/386 /Rev.1  • Samoa  
 
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    2012/13  2013/14  2014/15  2015/16  2016/17  2017/18  
       Debit 43.3  47.3  29.0  26.2  34.0  34.3  
           Compensation of employees  5.6  6.5  2.6  4.3  5.2  2.1  
   Secondary income  188.6  162.6  161.7  132.0  140.6  177.2  
            Personal transfers, net  156.0  126.9  122.1  111.1  114.8  126.3  
of which: workers ' 
remittances, net  143.7  124.0  120.4  110.3  114.3  126.3  
       Credit  199.1  175.8  175.4  149.7  159.7  200.2  
       Debit 10.6  13.3  13.7  17.7  19.1  23.0  
Capital account  16.0  60.5  35.7  27.2  43.2  29.8  
Financial account  -15.0  -22.0  -28.1  -15.2  4.9  1.7  
   Direct investment  -9.8  -16.0  -27.1  -6.2  8.5  -15.2  
      Samoa 's direct investment abroad  4.7  0.7  3.7  9.3  9.6  0.1  
      Direct investment into Samoa  14.5  16.7  30.9  15.5  1.0  15.3  
   Portfolio investment  10.8  0.4  8.5  0.2  5.6  0.4  
      Assets  10.8  0.4  0.0  0.0  0.0  -0.5  
      Liabilities  0.0  0.0  0.0  -0.1  0.0  0.0  
   Other investment  -16.0  -6.5  -9.5  -9.2  -9.2  16.4  
      Assets  6.0  43.7  17.0  -7.3  -19.0  -20.3  
      Liabilities  22.0  50.1  26.5  1.9  -9.8  -36.7  
Net errors and omissions  -31.9  -30.2  -17.1  -23.0  -13.0  -6.1  
Reserve assets  -14.8  -16.4  25.3  -16.3  10.5  42.4  
Memorandum:        
WST/USD (fiscal year average)  2.288  2.325  2.433  2.613  2.537  2.519  
Source:  WTO calculations based on data taken from CBS online information; and data provided by the authorities.  
1.22.   IMF's medium -term projections are positive regarding Samoa 's economic growth. GDP is 
expected to expand at a rate of 3.2% in 2018/19 and 5% in 2019/20. The good economic outlook 
over that period is dependent on the effective implementation of the SDS 2016/17 -2019/20, as well 
as infrastructure spending, preparation for the Pacific Games that Samoa will host in July 2019, and 
new business operations at the former Yazaki plant.  
1.23.   Other risks to economic performance include the partial withdrawal of correspondent bank 
relationship s by global banks, which may disrupt financial services, including trade finance, 
remittances, and cross -border money transfers. Weak  growth in Samoa 's major trading partners 
may also affect export and tourism receipts.  
1.3  Developments in Trade and Investment  
1.3.1   Trends and patterns in merchandise and services trade  
1.24.   Samoa 's international trade in goods and services (exports and imports) avera ged some 78% 
of GDP over the review period.  
1.25.   Total merchandise exports declined markedly over the review period , from USD 76. 1 million 
in 2012 to USD 44.4 million in 2017 (Table A1.1). The sharp reduction was mainly attributed to the 
closure of the Yazaki manufacturing plant in 2017. Merchandise imports increased from 2012 to 
2014, mainly driven by imports of capital goods in the wake of reconstruction activities following the 
passage of Cyclone Evan. A downward trend was, however, noticeable in imports unt il 2016 
(Table  A1.2).  
1.26.   The composition of exports changed notably during the review period. Manufacture, which 
was the largest contributor to total exports in 2012 (50.1%), recorded a large decrease, following 
the closure of the Yazaki manufacturing plant , to stand at 12.1% of total exports (Chart 1.2). On 
the other hand, agriculture , dominated by fish, became the top export category, accounting for 
56.3% in 2017. Other major agricultural exports include vegetable products, beer, and juice. Mining, 
driven b y fuel items (mainly re -exports of fuel for aircrafts and vessels), is the second -largest 
contributor to Samoa 's exports, accounting for 30.6% in 2017, up from 23.6% in 2012.  
1.27.   Over the same period, the composition of imports recorded a slight change. As fue l imports 
shrank  (in value) from 22.7% in 2012 to 15.9% in 2017 , owing to lower oil prices, the share of 
agricultural and manufactured products widened.  WT/TPR/S/386 /Rev.1  • Samoa  
 
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  1.28.   In 2017, American Samoa, Australia, and New Zealand were among Samoa 's main export 
destinations. (Chart  1.3). Australia, which used to be the main destination of Yakazi 's production 
and Samoa 's top exports destination, registered a large slump of its export share , from 53.9% in 
2012 to 21.4% in 2017.  
1.29.   Asia is the leading source of Samoa 's imports. Its share  in total imports rose from 84.4% in 
2012 to 85.3% in 2017. New Zealand is the top source of Samoa 's imports (26.4% in 2017), followed 
by Singapore (16.6%), and Australia (10.5%).  
Chart 1.2 Production composi tion of merchandise trade, 2012 and 2017  
 
Source:  WTO calculations, based on the UNSD Comtrade database (SITC Rev.3).  
WT/TPR/S/386 /Rev.1  • Samoa  
 
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  Chart 1.3 Direction of merchandise trade 2012 and 2017  
 
Source:  WTO calculations, based o n the UNSD Comtrade database; and data provided by the authorities.  
1.30.   Samoa is a net exporter of services. The services trade surplus increased from 
USD 106.4  million in 2012/2013 to reach USD 165.3 million in 2017/2018 (Table 1.3). Services 
exports are dominated by travel services, while transportation account s for the largest part of 
services imports (Table 1.4).  
  
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  Table 1.4 Trade in services, 2012 -18 
  2012/13  2013/14  2014/15  2015/16  2016/17  2017/18  
Total credit (USD million)  194.6  194.8  195.0  206.0  224.0  252.8   
(% of total credit)  
Transportation  4.6  3.9  3.2  3.0  5.3  5.1  
     Passenger  0.3  0.6  0.3  0.2  0.5  0.2  
     Freight  0.7  1.6  1.0  0.4  0.7  0.2  
     Other  3.6  1.7  2.0  2.4  4.1  4.7  
Postal and courier services  0.4  0.5  0.6  0.6  0.9  0.8  
Travel  71.1  69.9  73.2  71.5  67.4  71.2  
Telecommunication  2.9  2.1  5.3  6.9  8.0  7.3  
Computer and information  0.3  0.4  0.2  0.2  1.0  1.5  
Other  20.8  23.1  17.5  17.7  17.5  14.1  
Total debit (USD million)  88.3  86.8  68.4  84.7  82.1  87.5   
(% of total debit) 
Transportation  52.2  47.5  45.9  36.0  36.7  40.1  
     Passenger  12.5  9.3  1.8  1.1  0.8  0.5  
     Freight  33.1  33.5  38.1  29.5  30.6  30.6  
     Other  6.6  4.7  6.1  5.4  5.3  8.9  
Postal and courier services  0.9  0.1  1.5  1.3  1.7  0.4  
Travel  7.4  1.9  2.4  1.6  3.0  2.6  
Telecommunication  2.9  3.0  3.7  6.9  11.4  13.0  
Computer and information  1.2  1.0  1.0  2.0  2.6  1.1  
Other  35.5  46.4  45.4  52.3  44.6  42.8  
Source:  WTO calculations , based on data taken from CBS online information; and data provided by the 
authorities.  
1.3.2   Trends and patterns in foreign direct investment ( FDI) 
1.31.   The stock of FDI  in Samoa totalled a record high of some USD 282.8 million in 2013, before 
its reduction to USD 75 million in 2017, reflecting the closure of the Yakazi plant (Chart 1.4). FDI 
inflows were volatile during the review period , with a sharp decrease between 20 15 and 2016.  
1.32.   FDI ha s taken place in, inter alia , manufacturing, retailing, tourism, telecommunications, and 
aviation.    
Chart 1.4 FDI, 2011 -17 
 
Source:  UNCTAD, World Investment Report 2018 online information.
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  2  TRADE AND INVESTMENT  REGIMES  
2.1  General Framework  
2.1.  An independent state since 1 January 1962, Samoa is a parliamentary democracy with a 
unicameral legislature, a Prime Minister and a Head of State. Under the Constitution, the Head of 
State is elected by the Legislative Assembly for a five -year term. The He ad of State appoints the 
Prime Minister to exercise executive functions and preside over a Cabinet of 12 members of 
Parliament.1  
2.2.  The Legislative Assembly consists of 49 members , representing the 43 districts of Samoa, 
including two urban districts.2 All members of Parliament must be "matais " (chiefly titleholders). The 
Parliament is elected through universal suffrage every five years. Legislative proposals are initiated 
by government officials , following consultations with stakeholders , and are submitted to a sponsoring 
minister for consideration. The proposal is then transmitted to the Attorney General 's Office for 
drafting. Once endorsed by the sponsoring minister, the draft bill is sent to th e Cabinet, along with 
reports from the MoF and the Attorney General 's Office outlining the fiscal and legal implications of 
the measure and  is then tabled in Parliament. A bill requires three readings in Parliament and the 
assent of the Head of State, acti ng on the advice of the Prime Minister, in order to become law (Act 
of Parliament).  
2.3.  Samoa has a dual legal system, where international treaties usually require domestication; 
domestication may take the form of direct application of the international law. The legal hierarchy 
consists of the Constitution as the supreme law, followed by Acts of Parliament; subsidiary legislation 
(i.e. regulations, ordinances, rules, orders, and notices); English Common Law and Equity not 
excluded by any other law; and customa ry law, which has acquired the status of law under an act 
or judgement of court. Laws are authentic in English and Samoan. Constitutional amendments 
require a two -thirds majority by Parliament at its third reading (Art. 109).3  
2.4.  The judiciary consists of th e Supreme Court; the Court of Appeal; district courts; Fa 'amasino 
Fesoasoani4; and courts of special jurisdiction dealing with youth, family, drug and alcohol matters. 
The Land and Titles Court deals with matters relating to Samoan custom and usage, custom ary land 
ownership and matai  (chiefly) titles. Foreign companies may engage in civil proceedings before the 
Supreme Court or district court, and lodge appeals with the Court of Appeal.  
2.5.  Local government authority is exercised by the (360) Village Councils on matters of village law 
and order, and health and social issues, as provided for in the Village Fono Act , 1990 (as amended 
in 2017). The village chiefs ( matais ) are elected for life.  
2.2  Trade Policy Formulation and Objectives  
2.6.  The Trade Division of the Minis try of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT) is responsible for trade 
policy formulation, trade negotiations, and export facilitation and promotion. As the current Prime 
Minister is the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade, responsibility for trade negotiation s has been 
delegated to the Minister of Commerce, Industry and Labour (MCIL). The MCIL has a broad mandate , 
including industry development and investment promotion, registration of companies, intellectual 
                                                
1 Samoa has 15 government ministries : the Ministry of the Prime Minister ; the MoF; the Ministry for 
Revenue; the  Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade; the MCIL; the Ministry for Public Enterprises; the Ministry 
of Agriculture and Fisheries; the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology; the Ministry of 
Education, Sports and Culture; the Ministry of Heal th; the Ministry of Justice and Courts Administration; the 
Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment; the Ministry of Police, Prison and Fire Service; the Ministry of 
Works, Transportation and Infrastructure; and the Ministry of Women, Community and So cial Development. 
See Ministerial and Departmental Arrangements Act, 2003.  
2 As per the Constituencies Act , 1963, six constituencies have two representatives  each,  and all others 
have one. 
3 The only exception relates to a provision concerning the alienati on of customary land, for which 
amendments are subject to a referendum.  
4 Civil jurisdiction: claims not exceeding WST 2,000 which are also under the jurisdiction of the district 
court; and criminal jurisdiction: offences whose maximum penalties do not exc eed one year of imprisonment or 
a fine of WST 500, or theft where the value of property stolen does not exceed WST 500 (District Courts Act, 
2016).  WT/TPR/S/386 /Rev.1  • Samoa  
 
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  property protection, technical regulations, fair tr ading and consumer protection, industrial relations 
and employment conditions, and labour market information collection and dissemination.  
2.7.  The National Working Committee on Trade Arrangements (NWCTA) meets at least four times 
annually, to advise the Cabin et on trade policy matters and potential trade arrangements beneficial 
for Samoa. It is convened at senior management level , comprising the Chief Executive Officers 
(CEOs) of the key government agencies, as well as stakeholders and civil society, and is ch aired by 
the MFAT. The committee's terms of reference cover WTO matters, including trade facilitation, in 
which case the committee is convened as National Trade Facilitation Committee.  
2.8.  Samoa is in the process of implementing the "Strategy for the Developm ent of Samoa  (SDS) 
2016/17 –2019/20.5 It is Samoa 's eighth overarching development plan, which sets out the 
Government 's priorities and objectives in four areas (economic, social, infrastructure and 
environment), which are implemented through 14 sector plans.6 The Trade, Commerce and 
Manufacturing Sector Plan (TCMSP) plays a central role with regard to the direction of Samoa 's trade 
policy and reforms.  
2.9.  The initial TCMSP 2012 -16 established a road map , aimed at diversifying the production base 
and putting in place an inter -governmental coordination mechanism for implementation. Its 
successor , TCMSP 2017/18 -2020/21 , captures the work anticipated by the Government for the key 
outcomes of the SDS (i.e. improved export performance and enhanced particip ation of the private 
sector in development). The current TCMSP and its predecessor are based upon the Diagnostic Trade 
Integration Studies (DTIS s) of 2010 and 2016.7 The objectives of the current TCMSP have been 
developed under four pillars. Pillars 1 and 2 aim to improve the industrial supply and productivity of 
the main industries and  increase processing activities and value -addition of locally manufactured 
goods. Under Pillar 3, the Government aims to reduce the cost of doing business, improve access to 
private sector support schemes, improve the trade balance, and increase labour mobility in foreign 
markets.  Pillar 4 seeks to strengthen institutional capacity and coordination. The Plan lists a range 
of actions (93), including reforms of the regulatory fr amework that affect trade and investment.8 
This includes, for example, a review of the national tariff structure , to reduce tariffs on inputs and 
capital goods for local production processes.  
2.3  Trade Agreements and Arrangements  
2.3.1   WTO  
2.10.   Samoa became the 155th Member of the WTO on 10 May 2012. It grants at least MFN 
treatment to all its trading partners. Its participation is facilitated by the Pacific Island Forum 
Secretariat (PIFS) Office in Geneva. Samoa participates in, and supports the positions of, the 
followi ng groupings in the WTO: African, Caribbean and Pacific countries (ACP), G -90, Small 
Vulnerable Economies (SVEs) , and the Pacific Group. At the Ministerial Conference in Buenos Aires 
in 2017, Samoa made a statement on a behalf of the Pacific Group.9 
2.11.   Accord ing to the authorities, Samoa continues to implement its WTO accession commitments 
within  the time -frame of 2013 -21, in line with the Working Party Report on the accession of Samoa 
to the WTO.10 Samoa has provided 10 notifications since its accession (Table A2.2).  A WTO 
notification workshop was held in Samoa in 2017.  While the Government has prioritized the 
implementation and notifications related to the Trade Facilitation Agreement, it has outstanding 
notification obligations in areas such as domestic support and export subsidies in agriculture and  
import licensing procedures. Also, it has not notified any of its recent TBT and SPS measures 
                                                
5 MoF online information. Viewed at: https://www.mof.gov.ws/Portals/195/EPPD/SDS%201617 -
1920_Eng.pdf .  
6 MoF online information. Viewed at: 
https://www.mof.gov.ws/Services/Economy/SectorPlans/ tabid/5811/Default.aspx . 
7 MCIL online information. Viewed at: https://www.mcil.gov.ws/?media_dl=3653 . 
8 MCIL online information. Viewed at:  https://www.mcil.gov.ws/tcmsp -201718 -202021_master -
document_web/ .  
9 WTO document WT/MIN(17)/ST/97, 4 January 2018.  
10 WTO documents WT/ACC/SAM/30 and WT/MIN(11)1, 1 November 201 1. WT/TPR/S/386 /Rev.1  • Samoa  
 
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  (Section  3.3.2). Samoa has never been a party to, or a third party in, any WTO dispute settlement 
procedures.   
2.3.2   Regional and preferential agreements  
2.3.2.1   Pacific Island Countries Trade Agreement (PICTA)  
2.12.   The PICTA is a regional trade agreement (RTA) among the 14 Forum Island Countries.11 It 
was originally a trade in goods agreement , with the aim of removing tariff s on most goods by 2021, 
excluding alcohol and tobacco products. The Agreement was signed by Samoa on 18 August 2001 
and entered in to force in Samoa on 13 April 2003. It was notified to the WTO in September 2008 
under the provisions of the Enabling Clause.12 As at December 2018, eligible Samoan exports (that 
meet the rules of origin criteria) were accorded preferential duties in Cook Islands, Fiji, Niue, 
Solomon Islands, and Tuvalu. The remaining signatory countries have yet to ratify the PICTA or to 
announc e their readiness to trade under it. The parties have adopted a negative list approach for 
preferential tariffs. Samoa has excluded five tariff lines ( HS 3208.0000, HS 3209.0000, 
HS 2201.1010, HS 0407.0000 and HS 6810.1100)  from duty -free preferential trea tment.13 The 
Agreement also contains provisions on safeguards, anti -dumping and countervailing duties, and 
dispute settlement, amongst others.14  
2.13.   Negotiations of a PICTA trade in services protocol were concluded in 2012. The protocol has 
been signed by 10 Fo rum Island Countries, with four ratifications completed to date , by Samoa, 
Tuvalu, Republic of Marshall Islands,  and Nauru. It will enter into force once six countries have 
ratified the Agreement. Samoa 's services commitments cover the following sectors: p rofessional 
services, financial services, telecommunications, construction, education, environmental services, 
transport services and tourism. A labour mobility framework for the temporary movement of natural 
persons is to be negotiated.  
2.14.   Samoa 's total trade with PICTA countries is small in comparison with its global merchandise 
trade (Table 2.1). Imports from PICTA partners far outstrip Samoa 's exports to them, averaging 
only about USD 2 million annually in recent years. Trade with Fiji, Samoa 's main PICTA trading 
partner and sixth largest trading partner overall , has grown strongly. However , there has been a 
decline in merchandise trade with Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, and Tonga.   
Table 2.1 Samoa's merchandise trade with PICTA and SPARTECA partners, 2012 -17 
USD '000  
2012  2013  2014  2015  2016  2017  
Total exports  76,101.6  62,108.6  50,921.6  58,927.6  56,040.5  44,401.8  
   PICTA  170.2  735.7  1,669.0  1,917.8  2,000.8  1,952.4  
       Cook Islands  9.5 20.0 71.9 151.7  145.9  127.8  
       Fiji 87.9 197.3  1,540.1  1,708.5  1,783.6  1,779.1  
       Kiribati  0.1 42.8 0.0 0.0 5.4 5.9 
       Micronesia  0.0 2.2 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 
       Nauru  0.0 0.0 0.0 18.9 0.4 0.046  
       Niue 0.2 0.3 0.2 0.0 1.0 0.2 
       Papua New Guinea  59.0 338.5  0.0 20.9 4.1 0.6 
       Solomon Islands  3.6 52.0 2.1 16.4 6.2 8.2 
       Tonga  9.4 81.8 54.6 1.3 42.8 29.6 
       Tuvalu  0.4 0.9 0.0 0.0 0.009  0.1 
       Vanuatu  0.2 0.004  0.2 0.1 11.4 0.9 
  SPARTECA  45,931.7  33,655.2  39,204.2  33,627.8  26,821.9  18,251.8  
       Australia  38,580.0  28,155.0  29,462.5  24,816.6  20,124.2  9,516.7  
       New Zealand  7,351.7  5,500.3  9,741.8  8,811.3  6,697.7  8,735.1  
Total imports  345,515.2  366,588.3  388,023.9  370,582.4  349,840.6  356,189.8  
   PICTA  18,214.8  22,614.8  18,302.3  23,760.8  23,616.3  21,175.6  
       Cook Islands  7.4 50.9 2.5 5.6 13.1 4.3 
       Fiji 17,851.4  21,039.8  17,401.6  22,856.3  22,867.7  20,729.7  
                                                
11 Cook Islands, the Federated States of Micron esia, Fiji, Kiribati, Nauru, Niue, Papua New Guinea, 
Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu, Vanuatu, and Samoa.  The Republic of the Marshall Islands and Palau have not 
yet signed the PICTA.  
12 WTO document WT/COMTD/N/29, 17 September 2008.  
13 DTIS 2016, p.26.  
14 WTO notification WT/COMTD/N/29, 17 September 2008.  WT/TPR/S/386 /Rev.1  • Samoa  
 
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2012  2013  2014  2015  2016  2017  
       Kiribati  0.0 0.0 0.0 2.2 0.0 0.0 
       Micronesia  0.0 0.0 55.7 0.0 0.0 0.0 
       Nauru  0.0 0.0 1.4 0.0 0.0 0.6 
       Niue 0.0 0.0 0.2 0.3 88.1 70.0 
       Papua New Guinea  113.9  1,031.5  417.4  545.8  276.4  262.6  
       Solomon Islands  11.7 81.3 10.0 89.7 11.5 22.2 
       Tonga  230.4  411.0  400.2  246.2  176.8  73.8 
       Tuvalu  0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 
       Vanuatu  0.0 0.1 13.3 14.6 182.7  12.4 
  SPARTECA  111,549.2  135,988.7  127,675.1  132,626.1  119,805.8  131,470.0  
       Australia  27,870.5  26,418.0  30,683.8  36,401.4  36,129.5  37,395.2  
       New Zealand  83,678.8  109,570.7  96,991.3  96,224.7  83,676.4  94,074.8  
Source:  UNSD Comtrade database.  
2.3.2.2   Pacific Agreement on Closer Economic Relations (PACER) Plus  
2.15.   Negotiations for an RTA between the Forum Island Countries and Australia and New Zealand 
(PACER Plus) were launched in 2009 and concluded on 20  April 2017. PACER Plus builds on the 
South Pacific Regional Trade and Economic Cooperation Agreement (SPARTECA) and the original 
PACER Agreement (2001), a framework agreement for trade relations without substantive trade 
liberalization. By December 2018, PACER Plus had been signed by Australia, New Zealand and nine 
Forum Island Countries, including Samoa.15 It will enter into force once eight parties have completed 
their internal procedures.  
2.16.   PACER Plus covers trade in goods, services and investment; it contains, amongst others, 
chapters on customs matters and rules of origin, TBT and SPS measures, and an arran gement for 
labour mobility. Australia and New Zealand have committed to keep their preferential tariffs at zero 
on all products. Samoa is to reduce most of its tariffs to zero over an implementation period of 
25 years; there are exceptions, notably for agr icultural products. Depending on the product, 
Samoa 's agricultural tariffs are to remain at rates of up to 20%; specific or alternate duties are to 
apply (e.g. on alcoholic beverages and tobacco products); or products are to be exempt from 
reduction commit ments ( "unbound ").16  
2.3.3   Preferential agreements  
2.3.3.1   South Pacific Regional Trade and Economic Cooperation Agreement (SPARTECA ) 
2.17.   SPARTECA is a non -reciprocal preferential agreement, in force since 1981, under which 
Australia and New Zealand provide duty -free and qu ota-free (DFQF) access to all eligible products 
from the Forum Island Countries (with the exception of sugar imports into Australia). In general, 
the rules of origin require that at least 50% of the product 's total factory cost be from SPARTECA 
parties.  
2.3.3.2   General System of Preferences (GSP)  
2.18.   On 1 January 2014 , Samoa graduated from LDC status. As a consequence, Samoa lost its 
status as a beneficiary country under the LDC-specific GSP  schemes of China, the European Union, 
India, the Republic of Korea, and Japan.  China granted an extension/transition period until 1 January 
2017; and the European Union until 1 January 201 9 for continued access to its Everything But Arms 
initiative. Samoa  remains eligible to utili ze other GSP schemes , such as those of Armenia, Australia, 
Canada, the European Union (GSP +), Iceland, Japan, Kazakhstan, New Zealand, the Russian 
Federation, Switzerland, Turkey and the United States.17  
2.3.3.3   European Union  
2.19.   On 21 December 2018, Samoa deposited an instrument of a ccession to the Interim 
Partnership Agreement between the E uropean Union , Fiji and Papua New Guinea. According to the 
                                                
15 Cook Islands, Kiribati, Nauru, Niue, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga , Tuvalu , and Vanuatu . 
16 Online information. Viewed at: http://dfat.gov.au/trade/agreements/not -yet-in-
force/pacer/Documents/schedule -of-commitments -on-tariffs -for-samoa-hs2012 -part-i.pdf. 
17 WTO online information . Viewed at: http://ptadb.wto.org/Country.aspx?code=882 . WT/TPR/S/386 /Rev.1  • Samoa  
 
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  authorities, Samoa has excluded from liberalisation under this agreement about 20% of its trade 
with the EU , based on health, production, environment al, development and revenue interests.   
2.4  Investment Regime  
2.20.   Samoa 's foreign investment regime is governed by the Foreign Investment Act , 2000, as 
amended by the Foreign Investment Amendment Acts , 2011 and 2015; and its implementing 
regulations , the Foreign Investment Regulations , 2011. The legal framework does not apply to the 
offshore financial services sector, which is overseen by the Samoa International Finance Authority 
(SIFA).  
2.21.   Certain activities are subject to foreign investment prohibitions or restrictions (Table A2.1). 
"Reserved activities " may only be carried out by Samoan nationals , and include public transportation 
buses, taxis, rental cars, retail trade, saw mills, and tra ditional elei garment design and printing. 
"Restricted activities " cover certain services, and the processing of coconut oil and nonu fruit (used 
as a traditional herbal medicine) ; for these activities , joint venture/incorporation requirements 
apply. Comme rcial fishing activities are subject to a 40% foreign -ownership cap. The Regulations 
(Article 3) stipulate the types of restrictions that may be imposed: foreign -ownership caps as 
determined by the Minister of the MCIL; maximum limits on foreign investment , as determined by 
the Minister  of the MCIL ; employment and training of Samoans; and the use of 50% overseas 
investment capital. Additional conditions may apply.18  
2.22.   The Regulations also set out the criteria and procedures for changing the lists of restricte d or 
reserved activities.19 Requests for the modification of the lists are to be submitted to the CEO of the 
MCIL, the analysis of which is based on economic criteria and benchmarks, which determine whether 
the activity at issue is considered to be adequate ly catered for by local businesses.20 A proposal by 
the CEO to amend the lists is then considered by the Foreign Investment Advisory Committee , which 
is composed of representatives from government ministries and stakeholders.21 Changes to the lists 
require C abinet approval. The lists were last amended in 2011 , with the addition of coconut oil 
processing (restricted) and traditional elei garment design and printing (prohibited).22 According to 
the authorities, the Cabinet has approved the amendment of the reser ved list to include beach fales 
(traditional Samoan thatched -roof, open beach houses) and budget accommodations.  
2.23.   Furthermore, the following business activities are prohibited under the Business Licence Act , 
1998, for domestic and foreign enterprises alike : nuclear and toxic waste disposal or storage ; the 
export of products prohibited by law; prostitution; the processing and export of endangered species; 
and the production of weapons of war.  
2.24.   Foreign investors are subject to the same rules and regulations a s domestic investors, except 
for land -related matters (see below). No restrictions are imposed on foreign investors regarding 
repatriat ion of  profits, provided they present the required supporting documents and tax clearance. 
Samoa has a double taxation ag reement with New Zealand.  It is not a party to any investment 
treaty.  
2.25.   Foreign investors require a foreign investment certificate , issued by the Industry Development 
and Investment Promotion Division of the MCIL. Applications are normally processed within three  to 
five working days. A total of 66 new foreign investment certificates were received and approved in 
FY 2017/18, mainly in the professional services and non -food retail sectors. Certificates are valid for  
                                                
18 Under Samoa 's GATS commitments , the supply of certain business services  (accounting review 
services , compilation of financial statements; other accounting services (CPC 86219); and bookkeeping 
services, except tax returns ) is conditioned by the mandatory establishment of a joint  venture with Samoan 
nationals ; and the supply of engineering servic es and construction services requires incorporation in Samoa. 
See WTO document WT/ACC/SAM/30/Add.2 - WT/MIN(11)/1/Add.2, 1 November 2011.  
19 Article 4.  
20 Schedule 1 of the Foreign Investment Regulations, 2011.  
21 The MCIL (Chair); the MoF ; the Ministry of Revenue; the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries; the 
Ministry of the Prime Minister; the MFAT ; the CBS ; the Attorney General 's Office; the Samoa Tourism 
Authority; the Samoa Chamber of Commerce and Industry Incorporated; and the Samoa Association of 
Manufacturers and Exporters.  
22 Foreign Investment Amendment Act, 2011.  WT/TPR/S/386 /Rev.1  • Samoa  
 
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  one year (WST  50), renewable, and may be cancelled if operations do not start within two years 
from the date of issue.  
2.26.   With regard to investment promotion, the MCIL has developed a National Investment Policy 
Statement and an Investment Guide, which set o ut the government policies affecting investment.23 
Samoa is a member of the World Association of Investment Promotion Agency (WAIPA). On the 
World Bank 's Ease of Doing Business Index, Samoa ranked 87th in 2018, down from 60th in 2012.  
2.27.   In 2016, Samoa adopted  the new Citizen Investment Act , that offers Samoan citizenship as 
an incentive for foreign investment. Qualifying investments must be in the area of: leasing and 
developing of government lands; processing or manufacturing of agricultural produce; processi ng or 
manufacturing of fishery products; tourism; information or communication technology  (ICT); 
renewable energy generation; investment in a government development fund for the purposes of 
national development or investment in a prescribed charitable trus t; or any other services not 
included in the Reserved List under the Foreign Investment Act , 2000. Leases of public land are 
permitted under the Act. Eligible investors must have a minimum net worth of WST 2.5 million, and 
the minimum investment is WST 4 m illion. The Act and its Regulation of 2016 are administered by 
the MCIL.  
2.28.   The Business Licence Act requires any natural or legal person carrying out an authorized 
business in Samoa to hold a business licence (valid for one year). Licence fees amount to WST  220 
per business activity for individual traders and WST 500 for companies. Foreign investors require a 
Foreign Investment Certificate prior to application for a business licence. A business licence is 
sufficient to become an importer. In addition, activi ty licences are required for businesses and 
importers engaged in certain activities (Section 3.3.1). The MCIL maintains an online company 
registry ( https://www.businessregistries.gov.ws/ ) 
2.29.   With regard t o land, three types of property are recognized under the Constitution 
(Article  101): public land, freehold land and customary land. Only Samoan citizens are permitted to 
own land, with some exceptions. The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment main tains a 
central public registry of customary, freehold and public land (farm, urban and commercial/industrial 
land) and of land that is available for lease.  
2.30.   Public land, i.e. government land available for disposal, is regulated by the Lands, Surveys 
and E nvironment Act , 1989. Any person of 21 years or more may lease government land for a period 
of up to 20 years, renewable for a maximum of 40 years. The law was amended in 2015 , giving 
authority to the Land Board to accept 99 -year leases (maximum of 10 acre s) for a hotel, resort, 
serviced apartment or any other tourism -related development approved by the Board, subject to a 
minimum investment of WST 10 million.24 Lease applications can only be refused if they run counter 
to the public interest , and refusals m ust be justified in writing.  
2.31.   The Samoa Trust Estates Corporation, a state -owned enterprise  (SOE) , has about 1,000 acres 
for lease purposes. It also runs its own agricultural operations (Section 3. 3.5.2). The state -owned 
Samoa Land Corporation was established in 1990, following a debt restructuring of the Samoa Trust 
Estates Corporation.25 The restructuring resulted in the Government settling all of the Corporation 's 
debt, and part of its land (24,000 acres) was transferred to the Government and subs equently to 
the Samoa Land Corporation. The mandate of the Corporation is to sell, lease or develop its assets 
on a commercial basis, to assist in the promotion of socio -economic development opportunities for 
the people of Samoa,  and generate revenue for t he Government. Lease s can have terms of up to 
30 years (renewable), depending on the type of use. Under its articles of association, the Samoa 
Land Corporation is allowed to invest its landholding in any form, except directly involving itself in 
agricultur al activities. The Corporation 's assets amounted to WST  116 million in 2017.26 
2.32.   The sale or lease of freehold land to non -residents and overseas corporations (i.e. 
corporations with more than 25% of shares or voting power held by non -residents) is regulated by 
                                                
23 Online information. Viewed at: www.mcil.gov.ws . 
24 Land, Survey s and Environment Amendment Act, 2016.  
25 Samoa Trust Estates Corporation Reconstruction Act , 1990. 
26 Samoa Land Corporation online information. Viewed at: 
http://www.samoaland.gov.ws/Portals/183/Corporate%20Plan%202017%20%202020%2011072016%20FINA
L.pdf.  WT/TPR/S/386 /Rev.1  • Samoa  
 
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  the Alienation of Freehold Land Act , 1972. Under the Act, alienation of freehold land , without the 
written consent of the Head of State, is prohibited.  
2.33.   Customary land is land held in accordance with Samoan customs and usage. Pursuant to the 
Alienation of Customary Land Act , 1965, the Minister of Natural Resources and Environment may 
lease or licence customary land for any "authorized purpose " (i.e. public, industrial, commercial or 
religious purpose s) for a period of 30 years (renewable once) in the cas e of land leased or licensed 
for industrial purposes or for a hotel; or for a period of 20 years (renewable once) in other cases. 
Land leased for forestry purposes is subject to the provisions of the Forest Act , 1967.  WT/TPR/S/386 /Rev.1  • Samoa  
 
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  3  TRADE POLICIES AND P RACTICES BY MEASURE  
3.1  Measures Directly Affecting Imports  
3.1.1   Customs procedures, valuation, and requirements  
3.1.  As with any natural or legal person carrying out business in Samoa, importers must obtain a 
business licence from the Ministry for Revenue (Business Licence Act , 1998). Applications must 
include the registration documents from the Registry of Companies in the MCIL (Section 2.4). 
Overseas registered businesses must attach a Certificate of Incorporation to their application , and 
Samoan companies with foreign shareholding, a Foreign Investment Certificate (FIC). Importers are 
required to register with the Ministry for Revenue ( "Application for Registration of Importers and 
Exporters "). Registration applies also to importers of  goods not deemed to be personal effects, which 
must be cleared under the same regime applicable to commercial importers. In addition, activity 
licences are required for importers of liquor (administered by the Liquor Board), narcotics and 
tobacco (Ministr y of Health), plastic bags and refrigerants (Ministry of Natural Resources and 
Environment), pesticides (Ministry of Agriculture  and Fisheries  (MAF) ), and energy -efficiency goods 
(Ministry of Finance). Imports of the products concerned are automatically ro uted to Customs ' red 
channel.  
3.2.  Customs procedures are regulated, inter alia , by the Customs Regulations , 2015, under the 
Customs Act , 2014.1 Documents required for customs declarations include the invoice, the cargo 
release order, the bill of lading, the import declaration form, the insurance certificate, the packaging 
list, and the certificate of origin. Revised fees for customs procedures apply since March 2015.2 
Samoa has implemented ASYCUDA World as a customs and risk management tool , using five 
selecti vity lanes for customs clearance: green (low risk); yellow (document check); red (physical 
examination); blue (post -clearance audit); and purple (query lane).  
3.3.  According to the World Bank 's Doing Business report, Samoa was ranked 148th in 2018 out of 
190 e conomies in terms of ease of trading across borders. On average, it takes 84 hours altogether 
to obtain, prepare and submit documents during port or border handling, customs clearance and 
inspection procedures.3 According to a time release study conducted in 2015 on behalf of the Ministry 
for Revenue, it took on average 10 hours under the ASYCUDA World system from the registration of 
the Single Administrative Document to cargo release, compared with 30 hours under the 
ASYCUDA++ system in 2014.4 
3.4.  The WTO Agre ement on Trade Facilitation was accepted by Samoa on 21 April 2016 , and two 
notifications regarding its Category A, B and C commitments have been submitted (Section 2. 3.1). 
Since 2016, use of a customs broker upon importation  is no longer required . Samoa h as not yet 
established a single window. A pilot Authorized Economic Operator project is to start in 2019. Samoa 
does not apply pre -shipment inspection. There are customs regimes for temporary imports and duty 
drawbacks, as provided for in the Customs Act , 2014.  
3.5.  Samoa has yet to make a notification to the Committee on Customs Valuation regarding the 
Agreement on Implementation the Article VII of the GATT 1994. Customs valuation matters are 
regulated by the following legislation:5  
a. Customs Valuation Regulatio ns, 2011.6 According to th ese Regulation s, which have been 
in force since 4 October 2011, the customs valuation system is based on the WTO Customs 
Valuation Agreement, with the transaction value as the primary basis of valuation (Art. 3). 
Samoa Customs maintains a valuation database for internal investigation  purposes, 
                                                
1 The Customs Act, 2014 repeals the Customs Act, 1977.  The latter (old Act) still applies, for example, 
where regulations made under the old Act are yet to be replaced or repealed.  
2 See Samoa Customs online information. Viewed at: 
http://www.revenue.gov.ws/images/FACT_SHEET_Public_V1.pdf . 
3 World Bank online information . Viewed at: 
http://www.doingbusiness.org/data/exploreeconomies/samoa#trading -across -borders .  
4 Ministry for Revenue (2015), Samoa Customs Time Release Study May 2015.  
5 Online information. Viewed at: http:// www.revenue.gov.ws/legislations .  
6 Online information. Viewed at: 
https://www.wto.org/english/thewto_e/acc_e/sam_e/WTACCSAM26_LEG_1.pdf .  WT/TPR/S/386 /Rev.1  • Samoa  
 
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  especially for food and construction material. The 2011 Regulation s revise and supersede 
the Customs Valuation Regulations , 1998 and the Customs Valuation Amendment 
Regulation , 2009, which were the subject of examination in the course of Samoa 's 
accession to the WTO.7 Although the Customs Act , 2014 repeals the Customs Valuation 
Regulations , 2011, "the provisions of those regulations that are not inconsistent with the 
provisions of this Act continue in force as if they are made under this Act unti l those 
provisions are replaced or repealed under this Act ". (Art. 344).  
b. Customs Act , 2014. The Act covers four matters related to valuation (importer must 
specify customs value on entry; amendment of valuation assessment; currency and 
exchange rate; and t he State's right of compulsory acquisitions). Section 95 allows an 
amendment to the valuation assessment "If the Comptroller is satisfied, whether as the 
result of an investigation carried out under Section 178, or as the result of an audit or 
examination carried out under Section 182, or for any other reason, that an assessment 
made under Section 94(1) in respect of goods is: (a) inconsistent with Regulations made 
under this Act prescribing the valuation of goods for the purposes of the Tariff; or (b) for 
any other reason, incorrect, the Comptroller may amend that assessment, and that 
amended assessment is the Customs value for the purposes of this Act. " Notice in writing 
must be given to the importer with regard to the basis of the amended assessment.  
3.6.  The Customs Act , 2014 provides for a system of advance rulings; Customs has not yet received 
a request for an advance ruling. The Ministry for Revenue issued procedures in April 2018 for 
appealing decisions by Customs.8 Any initial appeal must be lodged with t he Comptroller of Customs 
within 20 working days; following which the Comptroller must issue a final ruling in writing within 
39 working days, depending on the complexity of the matter. The ruling may be appealed before a 
Customs Appeal Authority (to be es tablished).  
3.1.2   Rules of origin  
3.7.  Samoa has no non -preferential rules of origin.  
3.8.  Preferential rules of origin exist for Samoa 's trade with PICTA partners (Section 2.3.2.1). A 
PICTA Rules of Origin Regulation, incorporating PICTA rules of origin into Samoan law , entered into 
force on 25 July 2006. Eligible imports must meet, inter alia,  the following rules of origin criteria: 
they must be wholly produced or obtained in the PICTA exporting country; or the final process must 
take place in the PICTA exporting count ry and total expenditures on originating materials, overheads 
and labour cost must not be less than 40% of the overall total expenditure for the good.  
3.1.3   Tariffs  
3.1.3.1   Applied  MFN tariffs  
3.9.  The average applied MFN tariff was 11. 4% in 2018, unchanged since the WTO accession of 
Samoa in 2012 (Table 3.1). Samoa has a four -band customs tariff (duty -free; 5%; 8%; and 20%) , 
with a few exceptions of rates higher than 35% (Chart 3.1). Almost all tariffs are ad valorem  (99%). 
Two thirds of  the tariff lines are set at 8%. The share of duty -free lines is small (3.5% of all tariff 
lines). There are no "nuisance tariffs " at or below 2%.   
3.10.   The applied MFN tariffs on agricultural products (WTO definition) averaged 15. 0% in 2018, 
ranging from zero to 90%. The peak tariff of 90% (alternate rate) is levied on  cigarettes and cigars . 
By sector, the highest import duties are levied on "beverages, spirits and tobacco " (WTO definition), 
with an average of 31.2% (Table A3.1). Non-ad valorem  tariffs (53 tari ff lines) are imposed on 
products within the product group of beverages, spirits and tobacco. MFN tariffs on non -agricultural 
products averaged 10.7% in 2018, ranging from zero to 50%. The highest rate (50%) applies to 
kerosene. Tariff protection is highes t for clothing, where a flat rate of 20% applies across all products 
(Table A3.1).   
                                                
7 Paras 110 -117 of WTO document WT/A CC/SAM/30, 1 November 2011 . 
8 Ministry for Revenue online information. Viewed at: 
http://www.revenue.gov.ws/images/2015/Busin ess_Forms/New_2018/Website_Photos_2018/GEN009 ---
Initial -Appeal -SOP-.pdf. WT/TPR/S/386 /Rev.1  • Samoa  
 
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  3.11.   The 2018 customs tariff is based on the HS 2012 nomenclature at the eight -digit level.  Samoa 
is in the process of transposition to the HS 2017 nomenclature, with implementa tion expected by 
April 2019, according to the authorities.   
Table 3.1 Structure of the tariff schedule, 2012 and 2018  
 MFN applied  Current boundb 
 2012  2018a 
Simple average rate (%)  11.4 11.4 21.5 
   WTO agricultural products  14.7 15.0 26.4 
   WTO non -agricultural products  10.8 10.7 20.6 
Duty-free tariff lines (% of all tariff lines)  3.2 3.3 0.0 
Simple average of dutiable lines only  11.8 11.8 21.5 
Tariff quotas (% of all tariff lines)  0.0 0.0 0.0 
Non-ad valorem  tariffs (% of all tariff lines)  1.0 1.0 1.0 
Domestic tariff "peaks " (% of all tariff lines)c 0.2 0.3 0.1 
International tariff "peaks " (% of all tariff lines)d 29.5 29.3 55.9 
Nuisance applied rates (% of all tariff lines)e 0.02 0.0 0.0 
Overall standard deviation  6.5 6.7 8.1 
Total number of tariff lines  5,478  5,483  5,483  
    Ad valorem  rates  5,424  5,430  5,429  
    of which:  duty-free rates  173 182 0 
    Specific rates  8 7 7 
    Alternate rates  46 46 47 
a As of 3rd April 2018.  
b Based on the 2018 tariff schedule.  All but 12 tariff lines have reached the final bound rates; for the 
remaining 12, the final bound rates will be reached in 2022.  
c Domestic tariff peaks are defined as those exceeding three times the overall simple average applied 
rate. 
d International tariff peaks are defined as those exceeding 15%.  
e Nuisance rates are those greater than zero, but less than or equal to 2%.  
Note:  Excluding specific rates and including the ad valorem  part of alternate rates.    
 The 2012 and 2018 tariff schedules are based on the HS12 nomenclature at the 8-digit level.  
Source:  WTO Secretariat calculations, based on data provided by the authorities.  
Chart 3.1 Distribution of MFN tariff rates, 2018  (as of 3rd April)  
 
Note:   Figures in parentheses denote the share of total lines.  
Source:   WTO Secretariat , based on data provided by the authorit ies. 
(3.3%)(1.1%)(65.9%)
(0.02%)(28.5%)
(0.1%) (1.0%)
05001,0001,5002,0002,5003,0003,5004,000
Duty free 5% 8% 10% 20% 35%-70% Non-ad
valorem ratesChart 3.[WSM]   Distribution of MFN tariff rates, 2018 (as of 3rdApril)
Number of tariff lines
Total number of tariff lines: 5,483
Note:     Figures in parentheses denote the share of total lines.   
Source:  WTO Secretariat based on data provided by the authorities.Non-advalorem 
ratesWT/TPR/S/386 /Rev.1  • Samoa  
 
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  3.1.3.2   Tariff bindings  
3.12.   All tariffs are bound as a result of Samoa 's accession to the WTO. The average bound rate is 
21.5%, with 26.4% for agricultural products (WTO definition) and 20.6% for non -agricultural 
products (Table 3.1). The implementation period fo r tariff reductions ends in 2022: 12 tariff lines 
are subject to further reduction of the bound rates (Table 3.2).  
Table 3.2 Further reduction of the bound tariffs until 2022  
HS code  Description  Current bound 
rate (2018) in %  Final bound rate 
(2022) in %  
10011100  Wheat and meslin  12.5 10 
10011900  Wheat and meslin  12.5 10 
10019100  Wheat and meslin  12.5 10 
10019900  Wheat and meslin  12.5 10 
10031000  Barley  16 10 
10039000  Barley  16 10 
10059000  Maize, other than seed  16 10 
15121100  Sunflower -seed or safflower oil and fractions thereof  19 15 
15121900  Sunflower -seed or safflower oil and fractions thereof  15 10 
17041000  Sugar confectionery, not containing cocoa  29 25 
17049000  Sugar confectionery, not containing cocoa  29 25 
83023000  Base metal mountings suitable for motor vehicles  15.8 13 
Source:  WTO Secretariat , based on data provided by the authorities.  
3.13.   There is a gap between the bound rates and the applied tariffs across the board for all product 
groups (Chart 3.2).  However, the applied MFN rates of 19 tariff lines exceed their respective bound 
rates in 2018 (Table 3.3).  This includes 9 tariff lines that were increased with effect from 
3 April 2018, pursuant to the Customs Tar iff Amendment Act , 2018.  Although the Act reduced the 
import duty for fresh/chilled turkey tails (HS 02072610) from 300% to 20%, the amended rate 
remains higher than the corresponding tariff binding.  According to the authorities, the applied tariff 
on froz en Turkey tails (HS 02072710) was also reduced from 300% to 20% ; the bound rate is 100%.   
Chart 3.2 Average tariff rates by HS section, 2018  (as of 3rd April)  
 
Note:  Calculations of averages include the ad valorem  part of alternate rates and  exclude specific rates.  
Source:  WTO Secretariat calculations, based on data provided by the authorities.  
  
0%5%10%15%20%25%30%
123456789101112131415161718192021
Calculations of averages include the ad valorem part of alternate rates and exclude specific rates.
WTO Secretariat calculations, based on data provided by the authorities.Chart 3.[WSM2]        Average tariff rates by HS section, 2018 (as of 3rdApril)
Note:
Source:01   Live animals & products        
02   Vegetable products
03   Fats & oils      
04   Prepared food, etc.
05   Mineral products
06   Chemicals & products07   Plastic & rubber
08   Hides & skins
09   Wood & articles
10   Pulp, paper, etc.
11   Textiles & articles
12   Footwear, headgear13   Articles of stones
14   Precious stones, etc.
15   Base metals & products
16   Machinery
17   Transport equipment
18   Precision instruments19   Arms & ammunition
20   Miscellaneous manufacturing
21   Works of art, etc.MFN appliedBound MFN applied average: 
11.4%WT/TPR/S/386 /Rev.1  • Samoa  
 
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  Table 3.3 Applied MFN tari ffs and bound tariffs  
Rates in % 
HS code   Applied MFN rate,  
1 January  – 
30 March 2018  Applied MFN 
rate as of  
3 April 2018  Bound 
rate 
2018  
02041000  Carcasses of lamb, fresh or chilled  0 20 10 
02042100  Other meat of sheep, fresh or chilled  0 20 10 
02042200  Other meat of sheep, fresh or chilled  0 20 10 
02042300  Other meat of sheep, fresh or chilled  0 20 10 
02043000  Carcasses of lamb, frozen  0 20 10 
02044100  Other meat of sheep, frozen  0 20 10 
02044200  Other meat of sheep, frozen  0 20 10 
02044300  Other meat of sheep, frozen  0 20 10 
02071410  Frozen chicken cuts  0 10 5 
02072610  Meat and edible offal of turkey, cuts and offal, 
fresh or chilled:  tails 300 20 10 
12071000  Oil seeds and oleaginous fruit: palm nuts and 
kernels  20 20 10 
12073000  Oil seeds and oleaginous fruit: castor oil seeds  20 20 10 
15121100  Crude oil of sunflower -seed or safflower oil  20 20 19 
83023000  Base metal mountings suitable for motor vehicles  20 20 15.8 
84861000  Machines for the manufacture of boules or wafers  20 20 10 
84862000  Machines for the manufacture of semiconductor 
devices or electronic integrated circuits  20 20 10 
84863000  Machines for the manufacture of flat panel 
displays  20 20 10 
84864000  Other machines  20 20 10 
84869000  Parts and accessories  20 20 10 
Source:  WTO calculations , based on data provided by the authorities.  
3.1.3.3   Preferential tariffs  
3.14.   Under the PICTA, Samoa grants duty -free preferential treatment, subject to certain 
exceptions, to Fiji, Cook Islands, Vanuatu, Solomon Islands, Niue and Tuvalu (Section 2.3.2.1).  
3.1.3.4   Tariff exemptions  
3.15.   Samoa grants tariff exemptions mainly under various provisions and regulations of the 
Customs Act, including the following:  
a. Under the Duty Concession Scheme (DCS) and Code 121 of the Customs T ariff, Samoa 
provides industry -specific tariff incentives (Section 3.3.1);  
b. Code 113 of the Customs Tariff (Second Schedule) provides for duty -free imports of fishing 
equipment by eligible commercial fishing enterprises;  
c. Code 120 of the Customs Act (Second  Schedule) provides for imports of "miscellaneous 
items " at 5% import duty.  Eligible goods include flavoured milk beverages; 
chocolate -based beverages; chicken meat, nuggets and patties; French fries and potato 
wedges; and bread concentrates and pre -mixes (bread improvers);  
d. Code 120 of the Customs Act (Second Schedule) provides for duty -free imports of "energy 
saving devices ". Eligible goods include equipment, machinery and vehicles using 
alternative energy sources, as determined by the Minister for Revenu e.9  
3.1.4   Other charges affecting imports  
3.16.   Internal taxes affecting imports include the Value -Added Goods and Services Tax (VAGST), 
and the excise tax.  
3.17.   Imported and domestically -produced goods and services are subject to the VAGST at a 
standard rate of 15%, as set out in the Value -Added Goods and Services Tax Act , 2015. Under the 
Third Schedule of the Act, zero -rated items include exports of goods and ser vices. For 
                                                
9 Customs Tariff Amendment Act, 2017, No. 15.  WT/TPR/S/386 /Rev.1  • Samoa  
 
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  domestically -produced goods and services, the VAGST is applied on the sales price. For imports, the 
taxable value is the sum of the customs value; customs duties (irrespective of whether a remission 
of the duty has been granted); and the amount of the excise tax, or any other applicable levies, 
fees, or charges. The Act removed an exemption previously granted to primary production. In 
addition, the it increased the VAGST threshold from annual sale s of WST 78,000 to WST 130,000; 
this aimed to bene fit small local producers.  
3.18.   Domestically -produced or imported goods and services that are exempt from the VAGST are 
specified in the First and Second Schedules of the Act.  Exempted imports comprise, notably , certain 
import s by passenger s or crew member s of ships or aircraft, notably low -value non-commercial 
goods; goods under an international aid project, subject to a n MoU. Exempted services include 
financial services, and interconnection fees between resident suppliers of telecommunication 
services.  
3.19.   Samoa levies excise taxes in accordance with the Excise Tax (Domestic Administration) 
Act, 1984,  the Excise Tax Rates Act , 1984, and the Excise Tax (Import Administration) Act , 1984.  
Products subject to excise taxes include: tobacco; alcohol; motor spirits; avia tion gasoline; jet fuel 
and aviation kerosene; other kerosene and white spirit; distillate fuel; residual fuel oils; and vehicles 
with a cylinder capacity of more than 2,000cc. Tax rates are specific or ad valorem  (Table 3.4).  The 
ad valorem  rates are applied on the ex -factory price for domestic goods , and the c.i.f. price plus any 
duty on imported goods. The excise tax rates are identical for imported and domestically -produced 
goods.  
3.20.   In the most recent amendment of the Excise Tax Rates Act in 2018, the excise tax base was 
further widened to include a number of previously exempted items; rates were increased on 
high-sugar  items , tobacco, soft drinks and alcohol, and high -fat items. According to the authorities, 
the purpose was to encourage he althier eating, leading to savings in health costs for both individuals 
and the Government.  
3.21.   Samoa has bound other duties and charges (ODCs) at zero in its Schedule of concessions. No 
ODCs are imposed on imports.  
Table 3.4 Imported and domestic products subject to excise tax  
Tariff item  Description  Rate of excise  
0207.2610  Turkey tails  10% 
2201.1010  Natural mineral or spa water  Free 
2201.1090  Other mineral waters and spa water  Free 
2201.9000  Other waters: ice and snow  Free 
2202.1010  Waters, including mineral waters and aerated waters, containing added 
sugar  52.5 sene per litre  
2202.1020  Waters, including mineral waters and aerated waters, containing added 
sweetening matter  52.5 sene per litre  
2202.1090  Other waters, flavoured  52.5 sene per litre  
2202.9000  Other waters  52.5 sene per litre  
2203.0010  Beer not exceeding 3% by volume of alcohol  WST 3.08 per litre  
2203.1090  Other beer  WST 3.08 per litre  
2204.1010  Sparkling wine of an alcohol strength of 15% or less  WST 5.44 per litre  
2204.1090  Other sparkling wine  WST 7.48 per litre  
 Other wine: grape must with fermentation prevented or arreste d by the 
addition of alcohol:  
In containers holding 2 litres or less   
2204.2110  Of an alcohol strength by volume of 15% or less  WST 5.44 per litre  
2204.2190  Other  WST 6.60 per litre  
Other  
2204.2910  Of an alcohol strength by volume of 15% or less  WST 5.44 per litre  
2204.2990  Other  WST 9.06 per litre  
2204.3000  Other grade must  WST 5.44 per litre  
In containers holding 2 litres or less  
2205.1010  Sacramental wines  Free 
2205.1020  Of an alcohol strength by volume of 15% or less  WST 5.44 per litre  
2205.1090  Other  WST 9.06 per litre  
Other  
2205.9010  Sacramental wine  Free 
2205.9020  Of an alcohol strength by volume of 15% or less  WST 5.28 per litre  
2205.9090  Other  WST 9.06 per litre  
2206.0010  Of an alcohol strength by volume of 15% or less  WST 46.86 per litre  
2206.0090  Other  WST 46.86 per litre  WT/TPR/S/386 /Rev.1  • Samoa  
 
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  Tariff item  Description  Rate of excise  
Spirits obtained by distilling grape or grape marc  
2208.2010  Of an alcohol strength by volume of 40% or less  WST 38.60 per litre  
Whiskies  
2208.3010  Of an alcohol strength by volume of 40% or less  WST 38.60 per litre  
Rum and Tafia  
2208.4010  Of an alcohol strength by volume of 40% or less  WST 38.60 per litre  
Gin and Geneva  
2208.5010  Of an alcohol strength by volume of 40% or less  WST 38.60 per litre  
Vodka  
2208.6010  Of an alcohol strength by volume of 40% or less  WST 38.60 per litre  
Liqueurs and cordials  
  Liqueurs  
2208.7010  Of an alcohol strength by volume of 40% or less  WST 38.60 per litre  
  Cordials  
2208.7021  Of an alcohol strength by volume of 40% or less  WST 38.60 per litre  
Other  
2208.9099  Of an alcohol strength by volume of 40% or less  WST 38.60 per litre  
2208.2020  Of an alcohol strength by volume exceeding 30% but less than 57.12%  WST 19.96 per litre  
2208.2090  Of an alcohol strength by volume exceeding 57.12%  WST 39.33 per litre  
2208.3020  Of an alcohol strength by volume exceeding 30% b ut less than 57.12%  WST 19.96 per litre  
2208.3090  Of an alcohol strength by volume exceeding 57.12%  WST 39.33 per litre  
2208.4020  Of an alcohol strength by volume exceeding 30% but less than 57.12%  WST 19.96 per litre  
2208.4090  Of an alcohol strength by volume exceeding 57.12%  WST 39.33 per litre  
2208.5020  Of an alcohol strength by volume exceeding 30% but less than 57.12%  WST 19.96 per litre  
2208.5090  Of an alcohol strength by volume exceeding 57.12%  WST 39.33 per litre  
2208.6020  Of an alcohol strength by volume exceeding 30% but less than 57.12%  WST 19.96 per litre  
2208.6090  Of an alcohol strength by volume exceeding 57.12%  WST 39.33 per litre  
2208.7012  Of an alcohol strength by volume exceeding 30% but less than 57.12%  WST 19.96 per litre  
2208.7019  Of an alcohol strength by volume exceeding 30% but less than 57.12%  WST 39.33 per litre  
2208.7022  Of an alcohol strength by volume exceeding 57.12%  WST 19.96 per litre  
2208.7029  Of an alcohol strength by volume exceeding 30% but less than 57.12%  WST 39.33 per litre  
2208.9021  Of an alcohol strength by volume exceeding 57.12%  WST 19.96 per litre  
2208.9099  Of an alcohol strength by volume exceeding 57.12%  WST 39.33 per litre  
2402.1000  Cigars, cheroots and cigarillos containing tobacco  WST 244.31 per  
1,000 sticks  
2402.2000  Cigarettes containing tobacco  WST 244.31 per  
1,000 sticks  
2402.9000  Other cigarettes  WST 244.31 per  
1,000 sticks  
2403.1910  Twist or stick tobacco  WST 260.12 per kg  
2403.1090  Other tobacco  WST 260.12 per kg  
2719.0010  Motor spirits  55 sene /litre 
2710.1120  Aviation gasoline  Free 
2710.0030  Jet fuel/aviation kerosene  Free 
2710.1140  Other kerosene and white spirit  Free 
2710.1250  Distillate fuels  54 sene/litre  
2710.1160  Residual fuel oils  52 sene/litre  
8701 Tractors  20% 
8701.1010  Agricultural tractors  8% 
8701.9010  Agricultural tractors  8% 
8702 Motor vehicles for the transport of ten or more persons, including the 
driver  20% 
8702.0020  Public service type motor vehicles for the transport of 15 persons or 
more (including the driver ) 8% 
8703 Motor cars and other motor vehicles principally designed for the 
transport of persons (other than those of 8702), including station 
wagons and racing cars (for example, passenger motor cars, four -wheel 
drive "off road " passenger vehicles and the like)   
8703.0010  Vehicles specially designed for travelling on snow; golf cars and similar 
vehicles  20% 
Other vehicles  
8703.0021  Of a cylinder capacity not exceeding 1,000 cm3 10% 
8703.0022  Of a cylinder capacity exceeding 1,000 cm3 but not exceeding 1,300 cm3 13% 
8703.0023  Of a cylinder capacity exceeding 1,300 cm3 but not exceeding 1,800 cm3 18% 
8703.0024  Of a cylinder capacity exceeding 1,800 cm3 but not exceeding 2,000 cm3 20% 
8703.0025  Of a cylinder capacity exceeding 2,000 cm3 but not exceeding 2,500 cm3 25% 
8703.0026  Of a cylinder capacity exceeding 2,500 cm3 but not exceeding 3,000 cm3 30% 
8703.0027  Of a cylinder capacity exceeding 3,000 cm3 but not exceeding 4,000 cm3 35% 
8703.0028  Of a cylinde r capacity exceeding 4,000 cm3 but not exceeding 5,000 cm3 45% 
8703.0029  Of a cylinder capacity exceeding 5,000 cm3 50% 
8704 Motor vehicles for the transport of (all items) goods  20% 
8705 Special purpose vehicles (all items)  8% 
8706.0020  For motor vehicles falling under 8703.0010  20% 
8706.0021  For motor vehicles falling under 8703.0021  10% WT/TPR/S/386 /Rev.1  • Samoa  
 
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  Tariff item  Description  Rate of excise  
8706.0022  For motor vehicles falling under 8703.0022  13% 
8706.0023  For motor vehicles falling under 8703.0023  18% 
8706.0024  For motor vehicles falling under 8703.0024  20% 
8706.0025  For motor vehicles falling under 8703.0025  25% 
8706.0026  For motor vehicles falling under 8703.0026  30% 
8706.0027  For motor vehicles falling under 8703.0027  35% 
8706.0028  For motor vehicles falling under 8703.0028  45% 
8706.0029  For motor vehicles falling under 8703.0029  50% 
17011200  For raw sugar containing added flavouring or colouring matter – beet 
sugar  5% 
Sugar  
17011300  Cane sugar specified in subheading Note 2 to Chapter 17 of the 
Customs Tariff Act , 1975 5% 
17011400  Other cane sugar  5% 
17019100  Other , containing added flavouring or colouring matter  8% 
17019900  Other  8% 
17021100  Lactose and lactose syrup containing by weight 99% or more lactose 
expressed as an anhydrous lactose, calculated on the dry matter  8% 
17021900  Lactose and lactose syrup – other 8% 
17022000  Maple sugar and maple syrup  8% 
17023000  Glucose and glucose syrup, not containing fructose or containing in the 
dry state less than 20% by weight of fructose  8% 
17024000  Glucose and glucose syrup, containing in the dry state at least 20% but 
less than 50% by weight of fructose, excluding invert  sugar  8% 
17025000  Chemically pure fructose  8% 
17026000  Other fructose and fructose syrup, containing in the dry state more than 
50% by weight of fructose excluding invert sugar  8% 
17029000  Other, including invert sugar and other sugar and sugar syrup blends 
containing in the dry state 50% b y weight of fructose  8% 
17031000  Cane molasses resulting from the extraction or refining of sugar  8% 
17039000  Other molasses resulting from the extraction o r refining of sugar  8% 
17041000  Chewing gum , whether or not sugar -coated  8% 
17049000  Other sugar confectionery (including white chocolate), not containing 
cocoa  8% 
18040000  Cocoa butter, fat and oil  8% 
18061000  Cocoa powder, containing added sugar or other sweetening matter  8% 
18062000  Other preparation in blocks, slabs or bars weighing more than 2  kg or in 
liquid, paste, powder, granular or other bulk form in containers or 
immediate packings of content exceeding 2  kg 8% 
18063100  Other , in blocks and bars , filled (Samoan cocoa pounded)  8% 
18063200  Not filled  8% 
18069000  Other  8% 
19021120  Instant noodles  8% 
19021920  Instant noodles  8% 
19051000  Crispbread  8% 
19052000  Gingerbread and the like , sweet biscuit s, waffles and wafers  8% 
19053110  Sweet biscuits containing cream or chocolate  8% 
19053190  Other  8% 
19053220  Containing cream or chocolate  8% 
19053290  Other  8% 
19054000  Rusks, toasted bread and similar toasted products  8% 
19059010  Pastries, cakes and pancakes  8% 
19059020  Pizza Free 
19059030  Crisp savoury food products (snacks , chrissy twisties , banana chips)  8% 
19059040  Ordinary bread  Free 
19059090  Other  8% 
25010010  Iodized salt (including table salt and denatured salt)  5% 
25010090  Other salt excluding iodi zed salt  8% 
One Sene:  Equal to 1/100 of one WST.  
Source:   Excise Tax Rates Act, 1984, as amended in 2018 . 
3.1.5   Import prohibitions, restrictions, and licensing  
3.22.   In general, Samoa 's imports prohibitions and restrictions regime seeks to address health, 
environmental, and safety concerns.  
3.23.    Under the Customs Act , 2014, Samoa prohibits the importation of counterfeit coins and bank 
notes , to prevent counterfeiting; and pornographic articles, publications, films, and video s, to protect 
public morals. Under the Act, the Minister responsible for customs issues, on the advice of the WT/TPR/S/386 /Rev.1  • Samoa  
 
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  Comptroller, may issue an order prohibiting imports of any specified goods or class of goods for the 
sake of public interest.  
3.24.   Pursuant to the Custo ms (Prohibited Imports) Amendment Order (No. 3), prohibitions apply 
to motor vehicles older than 10 years (previously 12 years), for environmental and safety purposes; 
and left -hand drive vehicles , to ensure traffic safety. However, exemptions are granted monthly to 
the importation of 100 private vehicles, pick -up trucks, and some special purpose vehicles.  
3.25.   In addition, Samoa prohibits the importation of 48 -can size d cartons of tinned fish. In 
accordance with the Bee and Bee Products Prohibition Order , 1999,  an import prohibition applies to 
bees and bee products; according to the authorities, the purpose of the prohibition is to maintain 
the current bee health situation of the country. The importation of some plants and food stuffs is 
prohibited under Samoa 's SPS regulations ( Section  3.3.3). An import ban on parrots is in place , to 
protect endangered species, based on the CITES and the International Union for Conservation of 
Nature ( IUCN) Red List of Threatened Species.   
3.26.   According to the authorities, the produ ction and importation of liquor with a strength by 
volume higher than 40% is prohibited since July 2018.  
3.27.   Samoa maintains restrictions on the importation of arms and ammunition, chemicals and 
pesticides10, and ozone -depleting substances11; to be imported, th ey require licences issued by 
designated public bodies. Under the Plastic Bag Prohibition on Importation Regulations , 2006, 
imports of non -biodegradable plastic bags are restricted , with a view to protecting the 
environment.12  
3.28.   There are also restrictions o n the importation of certain narcotics and liquors. Pursuant to the 
Narcotics Act , 1967, only holders of a specific activity licence may import narcotics; the licensing 
requirement was introduced to control and monitor trade in these products. Regarding  liquor, the 
authorities maintain that activity licensing was introduced to protect human health. All applications 
for a liquor licence are submitted to the Liquor Control Board.  The Board reviews each application 
on the basis of reports, prepared by the Mini stries of Police, Environment, Health and Revenue.   
3.29.   In 2014, Samoa notified to the WTO that information on its import licensing procedures are 
published in its Official Gazette (Savali).13 
3.30.   According to the authorities, after its enactment, the Trade in Enda ngered Species Bill , 2013 
will regulate the export and import of endangered species and any product derived from those 
species. Under the Bill, the Minister of Natural Resources and Environment issues permit s for export, 
import, and re-export of endangered, threatened, or exploited species.  
3.31.   Reflecting health -related concerns associated with high fat content, Samoa imposed an import 
ban on turkey tails and turkey tail products (HS 02072610, 02072710) in 2007 (Prohibition Order 
on the Importation of  Turkey Tails of 14 August 2007).  In 2011, a prohibition on the domestic sales 
of turkey tails and products was passed (Sale of Turkey Tails Prohibition Order , 2011). Following 
Samoa 's accession in 2012, the regime for turkey tail imports has seen a number  of developments:  
a. Customs (Turkey Tails) Prohibition Order , 2013 – the import ban was repealed in 2013, in 
line with Samoa 's WTO accession commitments14, and imports of turkey tails for private 
or personal (not commercial) consumption were allowed. On 10  May 2013, the excise rate 
on turkey tails was set at 300% , to act as a deterrent , since the authorities remained 
concerned about the negative effect of turkey tails on the health of the population.  
b. In 2015, the Ministry of Health commissioned a study entitl ed "Replacing the turkey tail 
ban: WTO compliant nutrition policy of Samoa ". According to the study, the majority of 
                                                
10 Pesticides Regulations , 1990 (Pesticides Regulations , 2011).  
11 Protection of the Ozone Layer Regulations , 2006.  
12 According to the Regu lations, t he importation of plastic products is prohibited unless: the person 
importing the plastic products is the holder of a licence to import those plastic products granted by the CEO or 
an authorized person; and where that licence specifies conditions , and those conditions are complied with.  
13 WTO document G/LIC/N/1/WSM/1 , 30 September 2014 .  
14 WTO documents WT/ACC/SAM/30 and WT/MIN(11)/1, 1 November 2011, paragraph 106.  WT/TPR/S/386 /Rev.1  • Samoa  
 
- 35 - 
 
  the adult population is overweight or obese in Samoa, and diabetes and heart disease are 
the main causes of death. The main issue was to de velop "evidence -based and non -
discriminatory " policy options for controlling nutrition -related health problems after the 
lifting of the turkey tail import ban. The recommendations include the following: an 
increase to 20% of the excise tax for food items t hat exceed certain thresholds in the 
nutrient profiling system15 (confectionary, sweet beverages, savoury snacks, processed 
meats, oils high in saturated fat, fatty meat cuts (e.g. turkey tails, mutton flaps); the 
elimination of tariffs on healthier oils an d imported fruits and vegetables not grown in 
Samoa, in order to increase the affordability of healthy foods relative to less healthy ones; 
the implementation of policies to increase fruit and vegetable availability (increased 
investment; pilot school frui t program me; and a trial e -voucher program me for fruit and 
vegetable purchases for 'at risk ' households ). The study 's recommendations have been 
approved by Cabinet.  
c. Customs Tariff Amendment Act , 2018 – with effect from 3 April 2018, the excise rate on 
fresh/chilled turkey tails (HS 02072610) was reduced to 10% , and the import duty was 
set at 20% (plus 15% VAGST).16 The import duty on frozen turkey tails (HS  02072710) 
was also reduced to 20%, according to the authorities . 
3.1.6   Anti-dumping, countervailing, and safeguard measures  
3.32.   Samoa has never used anti -dumping, countervailing, or safeguard measures. Provisions 
concerning the imposition of anti -dumping measures in Samoa exist in Section 9 of the Customs 
Tariff Act , 1975. Samoa has no specific legislation providing for the imposition of countervailing or 
safeguard measures and  has never use d such measures.  
3.1.7   Other measures affecting imports  
3.33.   Samoa does not maintain any local content requirements for the purpose s of acc ording 
advantages or incentives to promote the consumption or use of local goods and services.  
3.2  Measures Directly Affecting Exports  
3.2.1   Registration, customs procedures and requirements  
3.34.   In general, registration formalities for exports of goods for commercial p urposes are similar 
to those for imports (Section 3.1.1). Exporters must hold a business licence and  report the f.o.b. 
value of their exports to the CBS for statistical and exchange control purposes. Under the Exchange 
Control Regulations , 1999, export rev enue must be repatriated to Samoa within the specified 
timeframe.  
3.2.2   Taxes, charges, and levies  
3.35.   Samoa does not levy export taxes on any product.  
3.2.3   Export prohibitions, restrictions, and licensing  
3.36.   Export prohibitions, restrictions, and licensing may apply in acc ordance with the Customs Act , 
2014. Under the Act, the Minister of Finance, on the advice of the Comptroller, may issue an order 
prohibiting exports of any specified goods or class of goods for the sake of public interest.  
                                                
15 A nutrient profiling system is to be implemented under the new Food (Safety and Quality) 
Regulations , 2017 (Section SPS).  
16 Online information. Viewed at: 
http://www.revenue.gov.ws/image s/2015/Legislations/Amendments_Principal_Legislation/Customs -Tariff-
Amendment -Act-2018.pdf . WT/TPR/S/386 /Rev.1  • Samoa  
 
- 36 - 
 
  3.37.   Export prohibitions apply to log s and timber under the Order Prohibiting the Export of Logs , 
1990. The authorities state that the measure is necessary for the conservation of the country 's forest 
areas and reforestation. The export of any species of sea cucumbers is also prohibited.17 
3.38.   The Land, Surveys and Environment Act , 1989 prohibits the export of live coral. The measure 
is aimed at preventing further destruction of coral resources, and at ensuring the long -term 
sustainability of Samoa 's fishery resources.  Consent may be granted for the export of coral for 
scientific research, but not for commercial purposes.  
3.39.   In addition, export restrictions apply to Samoan antiquities and birds. Pursuant to the Samoan 
Antiquities Ordinance , 1954, the export of Samoan antiquities must be approved by the  Head of 
State, who may acquire them subject to the payment of adequate compensation.   
3.40.   The e xport of birds is restricted , for environmental reasons , and is subject to authorization by 
the Minister of Agriculture  and Fisheries , in accordance with the Wild A nimals Regulations , 1993.   
3.2.4   Export support and promotion  
3.41.   Samoa is prepar ing an Export Development Scheme (EDS), which aims to assist potential 
businesses in growing sectors, such as manufacturing and agriculture, to develop quality and 
value -added goods for export. The Scheme offers credit guarantees by the Government  (Export 
Finance Guarantees) to exporters wishing  to obtain short -term finance (12 months) from local banks, 
to cover specific expenses, such as the purchase of labelling and packaging  materials needed for the 
export products, and the payment of shipment and other costs incurred while transporting the 
products.  
3.42.   No public agency or authority was set up specifically to assist exporters in promoting and 
selling products abroad. However, ex port promotion remains part of the mandates of the MCIL 
(Investment Promotion and Industry Development Division)  and the MFAT ( Trade Division). In 
addition, the Samoa Association of Manufacturers and Exporters (SAME) provides, inter alia , 
promotion and coo rdination services for Samoa 's manufacturers and exporters , such as organizing 
trade fairs and export promotions , as well as skills development and marketing enhancement.  
3.43.   The Duty Concession Scheme (DCS), and C ode 121 provide support for Samoan export 
activities (Section 3.3.1). Samoa does not have any Export Processing Zones (EPZs).  
3.2.5   Export finance, insurance, and guarantees  
3.44.   Samoa does not maintain any public export finance, insurance or guarantee scheme s. Export 
finance and insurance is provided by private  companies , whose prices are market -determined  
3.3  Measures Affecting Production and Trade  
3.3.1   Incentives  
3.45.   The authorities seek to foster private sector development through incentives, which are aimed 
at encouraging businesses and industries in the process es of production and export. Incentives 
granted generally come in the form of duty concessions on capital goods used for various investment 
projects, and, in principle, they are governed by the Customs Amendment Act , 2007. The main 
incentives schemes consist of: the DCS, C ode 121, and the Aviation Transport Development 
Scheme.18 These schemes support qualifying projects by providing one -off duty concessions on 
approved goods or materials. Data provided by the authorities indicate that , between 2014 and 
2017, revenue foregone from various duty concessions granted amounted to some WST 46 million.  
                                                
17 Order of Prohibited Exports ( Sea Cucumber) , 2010 – Section 73, Customs Act , 1977.  
18 MCIL online information. Viewed at: https://www.mcil.gov.ws/services/investment -promotion -and-
industry -development/industry -development . WT/TPR/S/386 /Rev.1  • Samoa  
 
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  3.46.   Under the MCIL, the Industry Development and Investment Promotion Division administers 
the incentive schemes. The Division provides policy and other advice on investment promotions, and 
industry development.  
3.47.   Incentives under the DCS are made available to the manufacturing, aviation, and tourism 
industries. The Scheme aims to support the aviation industry, local manufacturers and property 
develope rs (hotels, motels and beach resorts), through the import of materials on a duty -free basis 
under the Provision of the Customs Amendment Act , 2007, the Customs (Tourism and 
Manufacturing) Amendment Regulation , 2010, and the Customs (Aviation Transport Deve lopment) 
Regulations , 2012. In order to acquire the status of "qualifying project ", applications must be 
submitted to the MCIL for review by the Investment Committee, before submission to the Cabinet 
for consideration. The exemption of customs duty is gran ted only for a list of goods to be approved 
by the Ministry of Finance. Guidelines on the eligibility criteria and procedures are published on the 
website of the MCIL.19  
3.48.   The Code 121 scheme was designed with a view to providing support to domestic business es, 
including: poultry farmers, manufacturers of agricultural products, handicraft manufacturers and 
certain indigenous ( elei) garment manufacturers, by exempting duty , from 20% or 8% to zero, for 
imported raw materials and certain materials imported by bu sinesses approved under the Customs 
Tariff Amendment Act , 2008. To be eligible, a business must: be holder of a licen ce; provide evidence 
of overseas suppliers of raw materials; and provide evidence of export markets (for exporters).20 
Under the Code 120 sc heme, further incentives are in place for "goods for economic , social , cultural 
or other purposes ", as determined by the Minister for Revenue.  
3.49.   Apart from the three schemes above, the Small Business Enterprise Centre (SBEC) also 
maintains the Small Business  Loan Guarantee Scheme. The Scheme provides a loan guarantee for 
local businesses. The guarantee fund is about WST 8.5 million. A 100% guarantee is provided for 
loans up to WST 10,000 , and an 80 % guarantee for loans between WST 10 ,000 and WST 50,000. 
Benef iciaries must: be Samoan citizen s, complete Start Your Business  (SYB) training, have an 
existing business, and preferably be aged between 21 and 50 years old. Businesses supported must 
comply with national requirements regarding environment, labour and cyb er security. According to 
the authorities, the Scheme has an export promotion component.  
3.50.   In addition, pursuant to the Yazaki Samoa Enterprise Act, the authorities provided an incentive 
package to the automotive parts company , Yazaki , up until its closure in August 2017. The package 
provided exemptions on VAGST and income tax.  
3.3.2   Standards and other technical requirements  
3.51.   The Competition and Consumer Act , 2016, the Food Act , 2015, and the Metrology Act , 2015 
are the main pieces of legisl ation governing Samoa 's TBT regime. Its TBT enquiry point is the Fair 
Trading, Codex Alimentarius, Consumer Protection and Metrology Division of the MCIL. Samoa 
provided a notification regarding the implementation and administration of the TBT Agreement 
(Article 15.2).21  
3.52.   There is no single standardization body in Samoa. The development and implementation of 
technical regulations falls under the portfolios of various ministries and agencies , such as the MCIL 
and the Office of the Regulator for the telecommun ications, electricity, broadcasting and postal 
sectors. According to the authorities, the regulatory and standard -setting bodies pursue policies 
based on international standards, and the Government is committed to making use of standards, 
guidelines and re commendations developed by international standard -setting bodies as the basis for 
its national technical regulations.22 Samoa does not have formal conformity assessment procedures. 
The Scientific Research Organisation of Samoa (SROS) is the accredited labor atory for food testing 
(bottled water, cocoa -based products etc).  
                                                
19 Online information. Viewed at:  
https://www.mcil.gov.ws/wpcontent/uploads/2017/08/Duty_Concession_Guidelines_2017.pdf .  
20 Online information. Viewed  at: 
https://www.mcil.gov.ws/wpcontent/uploads/2017/08/CODE_121_Guideline_2017_Edited_V.1.2.pdf .  
21 WTO document G/TBT/2/Add.124, 14 July 2017.  
22 WTO document G/TBT/2/Add.124, 14 July 2017.  WT/TPR/S/386 /Rev.1  • Samoa  
 
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  3.53.   The Competition and Consumer Act , 201623 confers powers to the Minister of Commerce, 
Industry and Labour to prescribe product safety or quality standards by regulation for any kind of 
goods, including performance, testing and labelling requirements, in relation to preventing or 
reducing the risk of injury to persons (Section 88). To date, Samoa has one technical regulation 
(mandatory standard), which is implemented under the Competition and Co nsumer Act , 2016, 
namely the Fair Trading (Toy Approved Standards) Regulations , 2013.  
3.54.   The development of technical regulations or mandatory standards is subject to the following 
procedures (as for all legislation): first draft; consultations ; second draft ; approval by ministry and 
minister; Attorney General 's certificate; Cabinet approval; and assent by the Head of State. A 
technical regulation comes into force on its publication in the Official Gazette (Savali). All technical 
regulations are posted on the  Parliament website ( www.palemene.ws ) for public information.  
3.55.   As far as (non -food) labelling requirements are concerned, regulations exist for the following 
products:  
a. Pesticides - pesticides are subject to import re strictions. Imports, storage and use of 
pesticides are regulated by the MAF , pursuant to the Agriculture, Forests and Fisheries 
Amendment Act , 1989 and the Pesticides Regulations , 2011.24 Pesticides must be 
registered before an import licence is issued, to which a copy of the pesticid e label is 
attached. Articles 22  and 23 of the Regulations set out the labelling requirements.  
b. Equipment subject to mandatory energy efficiency standards – a technical regulation on 
energy -efficiency standards entered into force on 5 March 2018 (not notified to the 
WTO).25 It was  adopted pursuant to the Energy Efficiency Act , 2017, and concerns mainly 
the registration and labelling of certain household appliances (refrigerators and freezers; 
air conditioners; and light bulbs) . Samoa accepts models that have been registered in 
Australia, Fiji and New Zealand. This regulation is implemented by the Energy Division of 
the Ministry of Finance.  
3.3.3   Sanitary and phytosanitary requirements  
3.56.   The MAF is Samoa 's SPS enquiry point. To date, S amoa has not submitted any SPS 
notification s. 
3.3.3.1   Food safety  
3.57.   The food safety legislation comprises, inter alia , the Health Ordinance , 1959, the Food Act , 
2015, and the Slaughter and Meat Supply Act , 2015.  
3.58.   The Health Ordinance is the overarching legal framewo rk for public health and food safety. It 
authorizes the CEO of the Ministry of Health to conduct ad hoc  inspections (Art. 51). Samoa currently 
has five food safety inspectors. Environmental Health Officers are responsible for inspecting food 
premises in re lation to sanitation, water supply, and occupational health and safety.  
3.59.   The Food Act , 2015 conveys powers on the Minister of Health to ensure that food is safe and 
suitable for human consumption; to improve nutrition; to prevent misleading sale of food; a nd to 
comply with Samoa 's international obligations. The Act regulates, inter alia,  the handling of food; 
labelling; food businesses; and food imports, exports, and inspection. The Ministry may prepare 
regulations, orders, standards, codes of practice and notices under the Act (Section 17). An advisory 
committee ( the Food and Nutrition Policy Committee) , comprising various ministries and a consumer 
representative , has been established.26  
3.60.   Under the Food Act, Samoa adopted the Food (Safety and Quality) Regula tions, 2017. The se 
set out labelling requirements, prohibited claims, and a table of conditions for nutrient content 
                                                
23 The Fair Trading Act, 1998 was repealed.  
24 WTO online information. Viewed at: 
https://www.wto.org/english/thewto_e/acc_e/sam_e/WTACCSAM31_LEG_2.pdf . 
25 Energy Efficienc y (Approved Energy Using Products Standards) Regulations, 2018.  
26 The Food and Drugs Act, 1967 was amended to regulate pharmaceuticals only (henceforth, the Drugs 
Act, 1967).  WT/TPR/S/386 /Rev.1  • Samoa  
 
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  claims. A 12 -month transition period for enforcing the new labelling rules ended in 2018. The 
Regulations comprise mandatory standards, whi ch, according to the authorities, are based on Codex 
standards. They are applicable to: eggs; fish and fisheries products; cereal s and cereal products; 
salt; fruit drinks; fruit and vegetables; noni juice; infant formula; meat and meat products; and 
sugar.  The Regulations also include standards in terms of maximum permitted levels of chemical 
contaminants, and maximum limits on microbiological contaminants in food.  Furthermore, the y 
foresee the development of a list of "high-risk foods and foods of regulato ry interest " requiring prior 
notice/approval before importation (Art. 54).  
3.61.   The mandatory standard for eggs, whereby eggs must be labelled with a "sell-by date ", is 
enhanced by the  Prohibition Order on the Importations of Eggs Without Sell -By Date (Or Best Before 
Date or Expiration Date) , 2010.   
3.62.   On 25 May 2018, a new standard and regulation for kava ('ava in Samoan) entered into force. 
Ava plays an important role in ceremonies and in the Samoan way of life (fa 'asamoa), as well as in 
trade. The voluntary standard and the regulation aim to improve the quality of 'Ava, from production, 
handling, and processing to sale and export, and to ensure that the product is safe for human 
consumpt ion. The Food ( 'Ava) Regulations were adopted pursuant to the Food Act , 2015.  
3.63.   The Slaughter  and Meat Supply Act , 2015 complements the Food Act , 2015 with regard to 
food safety and hygiene matters in meat establishments and slaughterhouses.27 The promulgatio n 
of implementing regulations under this Act is pending. The first regulated abattoir, a mobile 
slaughtering unit, opened in 2016, and a static slaughter unit is due to open.  
3.64.   Samoa is a member of the FAO Codex Alimentarius. Its National Codex Committee com prises 
nine members ( the MCIL as chair; the Ministry of Health; the MAF; the Ministry of Natural Resources 
and Environment; the Samoa Water Authority; the Samoa Association of Manufacturers and 
Exporters; the Samoa Chamber of Commerce; the Samoa Consumers Association; and Women in 
Business Development Inc.) and two observer organizations (FAO, and WHO). Harmonization and 
other initiatives by the Committee are guided by a Strategic Plan for 2017 -21.28 Samoa is also a 
member of the International Food Safety Au thorities Network (INFOSAN).  
3.3.3.2   Veterinary and phytosanitary measures  
3.65.   Samoa is a member of the International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC), the Pacific Plant 
Protection Organization, and the South Pacific Community (SPC), and is in the process of joinin g the 
World Organization for Animal Health (OIE). The Ministry of Agriculture functions as the National 
Plant Protection Organization (NPPO) and contact point for the IPPC.  
3.66.   In addition to the above, t he legal framework for veterinary and phytosanitary mea sures 
comprises the following acts and regulations:  
a. Agriculture, Forests and Fisheries Ordinance , 1959 – this constitutes the overarching legal 
framework for the responsibilities of the MAF;  
b. Quarantine (Biosecurity) Act , 2005 – the Samoa Quarantine Services of the MAF are 
responsible for the implementation of SPS measures under the Biosecurity Act. The Act 
consolidates legislation with regard to imports of (SPS) regulated products and  is currently 
under review. Following the enact ment (pending) of the Animal Health Bill, the Plant 
Protection Bill, and the Quarantine Bill, the Biosecurity Act is to be repealed. The 
Quarantine Bill incorporates import and export measures regarding biosecurity risks;  
c. Plants and Soils Importation (Dise ase Control) Ordinance , 1950 and Regulations , 1951 – 
the Ordinance is to be repealed after the passage of the Plant Protection Bill; and  
                                                
27 The Slaughter and Meat Supply Act, 2015 repeals the Meat Act, 1997.  
28 MCIL onli ne information. Viewed at: 
https://www.mcil.gov.ws/wpco ntent/uploads/2017/11/SAMOA_FOOD_SAFETY_CONSUMER_PROTECTION_ STR
ATEGIC_PLAN -2017%E2%80%902021.pdf . WT/TPR/S/386 /Rev.1  • Samoa  
 
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  d. Produce Export Ordinance , 196129 - the CEO of the MAF is given authority under this 
Ordinance to conduct ad hoc  inspect ions of premises where primary products are grown 
and stored for export. The ability to conduct ad hoc  inspections is to ensure that the export 
of produce from Samoa adher es to the agreements with importing countries of the agreed 
export standards. Further more, the Head of State, acting on the advice of the Cabinet, 
"may at any time restrict or prohibit during any specified period the export of any class of 
produce if, in his or her opinion, such restriction or prohibition is expedient either to 
prevent a s hortage of any necessity of life of the people of Samoa or to maintain the 
standard of the produce exported from Samoa " (Article 8).  
3.67.   Samoa maintains a "List of Approved Import Commodities " that is based on import risk 
analysis by the Samoa Quarantine Servi ces, according to the authorities.30 For approved import 
commodities, an import permit or international health/phytosanitary certificate is required.31 
Imports of products, or from countries, other than those listed, are prohibited. Beef imports, for 
example , are permitted only from Australia, New Zealand, American Samoa,  the United States, Fiji 
and Vanuatu.  The list also includes approved active ingredients of pesticides.   
3.68.   Import permits are granted by the MAF, following an import risk analysis (IRA) which 
evaluates the pest status of the country of origin, and with the recommendations of the Quarantine 
Export Advisory Committee (QEAC), which is composed of technical personnel, and the principal 
veterinarian. Import permits may be issued with or without condi tions. According to the authorities, 
the IRA procedures are in line with the International Standards for Phytosanitary Measures (ISPM). 
Samoa recognizes pest -free areas within countries. Fees charged for import permits amount to 
WST 190 a year for commerci al importers , and WST 10 per shipment for private importers. All 
imported plants and plant materials are subject to inspection. Information on import requirements 
is available on the Samoa Quarantine website ( www.samoaquarantine.gov.ws ), and the Secretariat 
of the South Pacific Community maintains a database of quarantine pests ( http://pld.spc.int/pld/ ).  
3.69.   As regards veterinary measures, a specific import prohibition ap plies to honey and bees (Bee 
and Bee Products Prohibition Order , 1999) , to contain the spread of American Foulbrood and other 
infectious honey bee diseases. Samoa is free of foot -and-mouth disease and Newcastle disease. All 
approved fresh and processed meat products and livestock require import permits from the MAF.  
3.3.4   Competiti on policy and price controls  
3.3.4.1   Competition policy  
3.70.   Until 2017, Samoa 's competition policies were stipulated mainly in the Fair Trading Act , 1998. 
It aimed to encourage competition and fair market behaviour by establishing a number of standards 
of conduct for traders. In addition, it controlled the mark -up of wholesalers and retailers for basic 
grocery products , to prevent distributors from taking advantage of their local position. The Act 
established the MCIL as the authority responsible for competition regula tion. 
3.71.   The Competition and Consumer Act , 2016 regulates the current competition framework. The 
Act entered into force on 3 July 2018. It provides for the establishment of an autonomous 
competition authority, the Samoa Competition and Consumer Commission (SC CC), which 
administers and enforces the Competition and Consumer Act , 2016. It has the power to conduct 
investigations into legal breaches and  take administrative enforcement actions. Decisions by the 
SCCC can be challenged before the judicial system.  
3.72.   The Act applies to all compan ies established under any enactment, including those in which 
the State has a controlling interest. It regulates anti -competitive agreements, concerted practices 
and decisions of associations, bid -rigging, price fixing, market shar ing and collective boycotts, abuse 
of market power, and acquisitions that substantially lessen competition. It also applies to the 
engaging in conduct outside Samoa by any person resident or carrying on business in Samoa.  
                                                
29 Online information. Viewed at: http://extwprlegs1.fao.org/docs/pdf/sam88415.pdf . 
30 The list can be viewed at: http://www.samoaquarantine.gov.ws/images/ApprovedImports.pdf   
31 For meat and meat products from Australia and New Zealand not exceeding 20 kg, an international 
health certificate is not required.  WT/TPR/S/386 /Rev.1  • Samoa  
 
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  3.73.   The Act mandates the Commission to  negotiate agreements with regulatory bodies 
(authorities in charge of sectoral regulation) in order to identify and establish procedures for the 
management of concurrent jurisdiction and  ensure the consistent application of the principles of the 
Act, by d eveloping and entering into M oUs. In September 2018, a n MoU was signed by the Office of 
the Regulator (OoTR) and the SCCC , to promote effective communication between them in 
performing their functions and exercising their powers under their relevant legisl ation.  
3.74.   The Commission may, with the approval of the Minister of Commerce, Industry and Labo ur, 
enter into an arrangement (a co -operation arrangement) with an overseas agency. According to the 
authorities, the SCCC has included collaboration and cooperatio n with overseas competition 
authorities in its three -year plan.  
3.75.   In dealing with infringements, the Commission may investigate on its own initiative or upon 
receipt of information or a complaint from any person. The Act grants the Commission the power of 
entry and search of premises of firms suspected of infringement. Any violation of the Act may be 
subject to criminal or civil prosecution. Criminal enforcement may result in significant fines and 
penalties as well as prison sentences for convicted individual s. The level of penalty (both 
imprisonment and pecuniary) can only be determined by a court.  According to the authorities, as at 
June 2018, the SCCC had not received any major cases. Infringements are punishable by a maximum 
fine of 200 penalty units (for individuals); if the penalty is imposed on a corporate body, 500 penalty 
units or 15% of the turnover of the corporate body and of its related corporate bodies, whichever is 
higher .32 The Commission may issue warning or cease -and-desist notices to a person, if it has 
reasonable cause to believe that the person has engaged, is engaging, or proposes to engage , in 
conduct that contravenes the Act.  
3.76.   Exemptions from the Act are granted for, inter alia , avoiding conflicts with international 
obligations, coll aborative activity, and vertical agreement.  
3.3.4.2   Price controls  
3.77.   Pursuant to the Fair Trading Act , 1998, price controls continue to apply, on a transitional 
basis, in the forms of maximum price and a percentage mark -up applied to imported and 
domestically -produc ed basic food items. The price control was previously reviewed every three 
months , to cater for the fluctuation of prices due to factors such as foreign exchange rates, and 
different freight costs depending on  the country of origin. Goods subject to price controls are listed 
in the General Price Orders. The most recent version was adopted in April 2018 (Table 3.5). 
According to the authorities, it will remain in force , pursuant to the transitional clauses of the 
Competition and Consumer Act , until July 2019 . 
Table 3.5 Products covered by the General Price Order, 2018  
WST 
Description (imports)  Wholesale  Retail  
Upolu  Savai 'i Upolu  Savai 'i 
Manono  
Apolima  
Sugar      
Brown 50  kg 142.00  149.60  3.40 3.70 
Brown 25  kg 71.00  74.80  3.40 3.70 
Salt     
Grade 27 fine 25  kg 24.80  26.10  1.20 1.30 
Rice     
Island Sun 18  kg 55.60  58.60  3.70 4.00 
Island Sun 9  kg 26.50  27.90  3.50 3.80 
FRC Special Blend 18  kg 45.60  48.00  3.00 3.30 
FRC Special Blend 9  kg 23.00  24.20  3.00 3.30 
Pacific Rice 18  kg 40.50  42.70  2.70 2.90 
Golden Chef Calrose 18  kg 32.00  33.70  2.10 2.30 
Summer Valley Calrose 18  kg 38.50  40.60  2.60 2.80 
Summer Valley Calrose 9  kg 19.50  20.50  2.60 2.80 
Japonica 18  kg 39.80  41.90  2.70 2.70 
Japonica 9  kg 20.50  21.90  2.70 2.90 
                                                
32 1 penalty unit equals WST 100.  WT/TPR/S/386 /Rev.1  • Samoa  
 
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  Description (imports)  Wholesale  Retail  
Upolu  Savai 'i Upolu  Savai 'i 
Manono  
Apolima  
Golden grain 18  kg 34.50  36.30  2.30 2.50 
Golden grain 9  kg 17.50  18.40  2.30 2.50 
Vermicelli 100*250 g flour      
Normal flour 50  kg 88.50  93.20  2.10 2.30 
Normal flour 25  kg 44.60  47.00  2.10 2.30 
Wholemeal flour 25  kg 47.50  50.00  2.30 2.50 
Bakers ' flour 50  kg 99.20  104.50  2.40 2.60 
Bakers ' flour 25  kg 49.00  51.60  2.40 2.60 
Punjas bakers ' flour 25  kg 46.00  48.50  2.20 2.40 
Punjas normal flour 25  kg 46.00  48.50  2.20 2.40 
Tropical bakers ' 25 kg 38.00  40.00  1.80 2.00 
Tropical normal 25  kg 35.00  36.90  1.70 1.80 
Kings choice bakers ' 25 kg 32.40  34.10  1.60 1.70 
Milk products      
Devondale UHT 10* 1  l 36.70  38.70  4.40 4.70 
Devondale UHT 6* 2  l 40.00  42.10  8.00 8.60 
Anchor regular 12*1  l 36.50  38.50  3.70 3.90 
Anchor lite 12* 1 l 36.50  38.50  3.70 3.90 
Paul's longlife 12* 1  l 36.00  37.90  3.36 3.90 
Meadow fresh UHT 12* 1 l 41.80  44.00  4.20 4.50 
Meadow fresh low fat 12* 1 l 40.00  42.10  4.00 4.30 
Butter      
Anc G/PRF sal 20*454  g 213.60  225.00  12.80  13.80  
Anc G/PRF sal 40*227  g  219.60  231.30  6.60 7.10 
Anc foil sal 80*100  g 223.10  235.00  3.40 3.60 
Westgold foil salted 20*400  g 169.00  178.00  10.20  10.90  
Westgold foil salted 40*200  g 175.00  184.30  5.30 5.70 
Westgold foil salted 80*100  g 194.30  204.70  2.90 3.10 
Mosquito coil      
Zap 1*60  62.50  65.80  1.20 1.30 
Tiger 1*60  56.50  59.50  1.10 1.20 
Mortein 1*60  62.00  65.30  1.20 1.30 
Knockout 1*60  61.00  64.30  1.20 1.30 
RAD 1*60  20.30  21.40  1.00 1.10 
Tinned fish      
Mackerel  - mac n 'oil 24*425  g 52.00  54.80  2.60 2.80 
Ocean Queen  - mac n 'oil 24*425  g 103.90  109.40  5.20 5.60 
Sardines  - tomato sauce 24*425  g 42.90  45.20  2.10 2.30 
Sea boat  - tomato sauce 24*425  g 41.40  43.60  2.10 2.20 
Soifua  - mac n 'oil 24*425  g 58.20  61.30  2.90 3.10 
Soifua  - tomato sauce 24*425  g 57.20  60.30  2.90 3.10 
Taiyo 24*425  g 208.50  219.60  10.40  11.20  
King pacific  - mac n 'oil 24*425  g 47.50  50.20  2.40 2.60 
King pacific  - tomato sauce 24*425  g 45.50  47.90  2.30 2.50 
Three star  - tomato sauce 24*425  g 45.50  47.90  2.30 2.50 
Sea star  - tomato sauce 24*425  g 45.80  48.20  2.40 2.50 
Sea star  - mac n 'oil 24*425  g 49.20  51.80  2.50 2.70 
Master  - mac n 'oil 24*425  g 57.30  60.40  2.90 3.10 
South seas  - tomato sauce 24*425  g 49.20  51.80  2.50 2.70 
South seas  - mac n 'oil 24*425  g 45.00  47.40  2.30 2.40 
Ocean king  - mac n 'oil 24*425  g 53.00  55.80  2.60 2.80 
Tropical - tomato sauce 24*425  g 43.80  46.10  2.20 2.30 
Tropical - mac n 'oil 24*425  g 56.40  59.40  2.80 3.00 
Aulelei - mac n 'oil 24*425  g 43.90  46.20  2.20 2.40 
Yummee  - tomato sauce 24*425  g 43.00  45.30  2.20 2.30 
Yummee  - mac n 'oil 24*425  g 46.80  49.30  2.30 2.50 
Chefs choice - mac n 'oil 24*425  g 76.00  80.00  3.80 4.00 
Chefs choice  - tomato sauce 24*425  g 45.60  48.00  2.30 2.50 
Tasty  - mac n 'oil 24*425  g 43.90  46.20  2.20 2.40 
Five star  - tomato sauce 24*425  g 47.30  49.80  2.40 2.50 
Five star  - mac n 'oil 24*425  g 49.00  51.60  2.50 2.60 
Pacific chief  - tomato sauce 24*425  g 45.00  47.40  2.20 2.40 
KJ - tomato sauce 24*425  g 47.70  50.20  2.40 2.60 
Ocean best  - mac n 'oil 24*425  g 52.20  55.00  2.60 2.80 
Sea Ram  - mac n 'oil 24*425  g 54.50  57.40  2.70 2.90 WT/TPR/S/386 /Rev.1  • Samoa  
 
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  Description (imports)  Wholesale  Retail  
Upolu  Savai 'i Upolu  Savai 'i 
Manono  
Apolima  
Tasi Kingfish  - mac n 'oil 24*425  g 79.00  83.20  3.90 4.30 
Nemo  - mac n 'oil 24*425  g 47.00  48.20  2.40 2.50 
First choice  - mac n 'oil 24*425  g 45.80  48.20  2.30 2.50 
Corned beef      
Palm 24*326  g 130.80  137.80  6.50 7.00 
Palm 6*1.36  kg 261.00  274.90  52.20  56.10  
Palm 24*425  g 331.40  349.10  16.60  17.80  
Trachurus/Chefs choice 24*340  g 163.50  172.20  8.20 8.80 
Oxford 6*1.36  kg 165.00  173.80  33.00  35.50  
Oxford 24*454  g 196.20  206.70  9.80 10.60  
Oxford 24*340  g 214.40  225.80  10.70  11.50  
Pacific 6*1.36  kg 270.00  284.40  54.00  58.00  
Pacific 24*453  g 302.00  318.10  15.10  16.20  
Pacific 24*340  g 240.00  252.80  12.00  12.90  
Salisbury 24*326  g 216.50  228.10  10.80  11.60  
Salisbury 12*326  g 117.60  123.90  12.00  12.70  
Salisbury 6*1.36  kg 226.30  238.40  45.30  48.70  
Manaia 24*340  g 181.10  190.80  9.10 9.70 
Tropical 24*340  g 137.40  144.70  6.90 7.40 
Freezer goods      
Turkey wings 14  kg 49.00  51.60  4.20 4.60 
Lamb neck slice 20  kg 186.30  196.00  11.20  12.30  
Mutton flaps 20  kg 295.80  311.20  17.70  19.50  
Pork trotter 20  kg 103.50  108.90  6.20 6.80 
Chicken leg 15  kg 57.50  60.50  4.60 5.00 
Source:  Information provided by the authorities.  
3.78.   In principle, the Competition and Consumer Act , 2016 provides for prices to be determined 
by market forces. However, price controls can be re -introduced for specific goods if the Commission 
believes that there is no effective competition in th e market for those good s.  
3.79.   Pursuant to the Electricity Act , 2010, the OoTR  is responsible for setting, changing and 
reviewing all tariffs charged by electricity licensees in Samoa. Tariffs are also regulated for petroleum 
products and  reserved postal servi ces. 
3.3.5   State trading, state -owned enterprises, and privatization  
3.3.5.1   State trading enterprises  
3.80.   Since its accession to the WTO, Samoa has never made any notification with respect to state -
trading enterprises within the meaning of Article XVII of GATT 1994. Accord ing to the authorities, 
although the Samoa Trust Estate Corporation (STEC) is engaged in some trading activities, it has no 
exclusive rights , and its activities are not likely to influence imports or exports. The STEC 's 
commercial activities cover exports of de-husked coconut , and cocoa. However, it has temporarily 
suspended its coconut exports , in order to service the local market first. In addition, the STEC sells 
its vanilla production to another producer, who then exports it.  
3.81.   Petroleum products are curr ently handled exclusively by Exxon Mobil ( Section  4.2.2.2).  
3.82.   The authorities state that none of state -owned enterprises (SOEs) trading in goods are state -
trading enterprises under the meaning of the Understanding on the Interpretation of Article XVII of 
the GATT 1994; and that none of Samoa 's SOEs trading in goods had been granted a monopoly or 
any special privileges that would enable them to influence imports or exports. As to SOEs supplying 
services, the authorities justified the de facto  monopoly posit ion enjoyed by some of them, with the 
small size of the domestic economy. Electricity transport and distribution are under Electric Power 
Corporation 's (EPC) monopoly. In addition, the Samoa Ports Authority, the Samoa Airport Authority, 
the Samoa Water Aut hority, and the Samoa Shipping Corporation have de facto  monopoly over their 
area of activities.  WT/TPR/S/386 /Rev.1  • Samoa  
 
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  3.3.5.2   SOEs and privatization  
3.83.   The State owns shares in a number of enterprises operating in most economic sectors 
(Tables  3.6 and 3.7). Since August 2015, the Ministr y for Public Enterprises has been in charge of 
SOEs. It ensures that SOEs ( public bodies) comply with the Public Bodies (Performance and 
Accountability) Act , 2001.  Public trading bodies have a legal mandate to operate as commercial 
businesses, and are enga ged in a diverse range of activities , including transport, utilities, subsidized 
housing, postal services, banking, land development, and trustee services. The y have a not -for-
profit mandate.  
Table 3.6 Public trading bodies  
  Percentage of 
Government shares  Business description  
Development Bank of Samoa  100 Small business/Agriculture development 
loans 
Electric Power Corporation   100 Electric ^power generation, transmission 
distribution and sale of electricity  
Gambling Control Authority  100 Management of gambling activities  
Land Transport Authority  100 Management of roads and road users  
Samoan Airways  100 Commercial inter -island airline.  
Air travel between Samoa and American 
Samoa  
Public Trust Office  100 Will-making and administer ing of  estates  
Samoa Airport Authority  100 Airport management  
Samoa Housing Corporation  100 Housing loans  
Samoa Land Corporation  100 Sale/lease of former Western Samoan 
Trust Estates Corporation ( WSTEC ) land 
Samoa Ports Authority  100 Manage ment of  ports and wharves  
Samoa Post Limited  100 Postal services  
Samoa Shipping Corporation  100 Ferry services. Provision of inter -island 
sea transport between Upolu and Savai 'i. 
Samoa Shipping Services  100 Contracting of crew for cargo vessels.  
Freight agency, seafarer/crew 
management services , and management 
of the MV Forum Samoa II vessel 
(currently chartered by the Pacific Forum 
Line) 
Samoa Trust Estate Corporation  100 Cattle and copra production and 
property investment/land leases  
Samoa Water Authority  100 Water supply. Harvest, treat ment and 
reticulat ion of  the water supply 
throughout Samoa  
Unit Trust of Samoa (Management) Ltd  100 Management of the Trust for unit holders  
Source:  Information provided by the authorities.  
Table 3.7 Mutual and beneficial bodies (March 2017)  
 Percentage of 
Government shares  Business description  
Mutual bodies    
Accident Compensation Corporation  Mutuala Levy collection; compensation payments  
Samoa Life Assurance Corporation  Mutuala Life assurance; mortgage borrowing  
Samoa National Provident Fund  Mutuala Superannuation fund; business and home 
loans 
Public beneficial bodies    
National Health Services of Samoa  100 Hospital and health services  
National Kidney Foundation of Samoa  100 Kidney disease and disorder s  
National University of Samoa  100 Tertiary education  
Samoa Fire and Emergencies Services 
Authority  100 Fire suppression and emergenc y services  
Samoa Qualifications Authority  100 Education  
Scientific Research Organization of 
Samoa  100 Scientific and agricultural research  
Samoa Sports Facilities Authority  100 Management of sports facilities and 
promot ion of  sports  
Samoa Tourism Authority  100 Tourism  
Samoa International Finance Authority  100 Offshore investments  WT/TPR/S/386 /Rev.1  • Samoa  
 
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  a These mutual entities are owned by policy holders/contributors to these entities.  However, they are 
monitored and controlled by the Government under their empowering legislations and the Public 
Bodies (Performance and Accountability) Act , 2001.  
Source:  Information provided by the authorities.  
3.84.   According to the authorities, Samoa 's policy aims at promoting economic growth through 
private -sector development and ensuring that partly or wholly SOEs operate on normal business 
considerations.  
3.85.   The Public Bodies (Performance and Accountability) Act aims to strengthen the performance 
and ac countability of enterprises in which the Government retains a controlling interest, i.e. more 
than 50% of the total shares or the majority of the votes. It requires public trading bodies to prepare 
corporate plans to comply with financial reporting require ments and conduct performance audits on 
a regular basis. To ensure that public enterprises are competitive -neutral vis-à-vis the private sector, 
the Act provides for public trading bodies to register as companies under the Companies Act; they 
must also aim  for the same profitability and efficiency as private businesses.  
3.86.   The Public Finance Management Act , 2001 requires public trading bodies to submit a 
Performance and Management Plan; to immediately notify the Government of any event that could 
affect their  financial position; to keep proper accounts and records of their financial positions and 
transactions; and  to submit performance and management reports , as well as financial statements.  
3.87.   Privatization and SOE reform have been implemented gradually since 20 03. Under the 
Government 's 2003 divestment policy, the  privatization of the Samoa Broadcasting Corporation 
(SBC) was completed in 2008 , and that of SamoaTel  in 2011. A new divestment policy was adopted 
in 2015. Under it, the Agriculture Stores Corporation, the Public Trust Limited, the Samoa Housing 
Corporation, Samoa Post, and Samoa Shipping Services were identified for privatization, and the 
Agriculture Sto re Corporation was privatized in 2016. Greater private -sector participation is planned 
for some other SOEs.  
3.88.   The authorities state that the country is increasingly considering public private partnerships 
(PPPs) , besides privatizations. In 2014, the Cabinet adopted a new PPP policy to serve as framework 
to all PPP -related procedures. It establishes guidelines for identifying and implementing PPPs, 
including within the SOE portfolio.  
3.3.6   Government procurement  
3.89.   Samoa's government procurement contracts accounted fo r some 10.35% of GDP in 2017.  
3.90.   The conduct of government procurement in Samoa is based on a policy framework , including 
the Public Finance Management Act , 2001 (Section XII); the Treasury Instructions Amended  Part K , 
2016; the amended procurement guidelines  for goods, works and general services; and the 
procurement guidelines for consulting services.  
3.91.   The Act and the Treasury Instructions provided for the establishment of a Government 
Tenders Board in 2001, which is supported by the Procurement Division under  the Ministry of 
Finance.33 Within prescribed limits, the Board is responsible for, inter alia : opening, and awarding 
tenders for the purchase by the Government of real and personal property, goods and services , and 
construction works.  
3.92.   The Board membership  comprises: the Minister of Finance as the Chairperson; the Minister 
of Works as the Deputy Chairperson; the Financial Secretary; the Director of Works; the Attorney 
General; one representative from the private sector nominated by the Minister of Finance and 
approved by the Cabinet; and two other members appointed by the Minister of Finance acting on 
the advice of Cabinet, one of whom must be an officer of a department other than the Treasury.  
3.93.   In accordance with the Act, when the  Board is in the process of considering a contract for the 
acquisition, disposal or management of goods, services or construction works, it may co -opt a 
                                                
33 Ministry of Finance online information. Viewed at: 
https://www.mof.gov.ws/Services/Procurement/tabid/5587/Default.aspx . WT/TPR/S/386 /Rev.1  • Samoa  
 
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  representative of the department responsible for that activity who has detailed knowledge of the 
requirements of the department in relation to the proposed contract. The person so co -opted may 
participate in the process in an advisory capacity only.  
3.94.   The Treasury Instructions represent the Government 's minimum standards of good practice 
for procurement planning, approaching the market , and contracting. They set out, inter alia,  
procurement principles, planning and preparation, procurement methods, requirements, and 
process es.  
3.95.   The application of the Instructions is mandatory for all procuring entities ( ministries and public 
bodies) whe n performing any government procurement activity; and these entities may be audited 
for compliance with the Instructions by the Controller or Chief Auditor , under the Audit Office 
Ordinance , 1961.  
3.96.   Under Samoa 's procurement legislation, open tendering is the preferred procur ement method . 
In this case, the tender must be advertised in a widely -circulated newspaper, internationally where 
required by a donor or financier, or otherwise when advisable in the interest of maximizing 
competition. Where international competitive biddi ng is used, the notice must be placed in at least 
two English -language newspapers or other printed media with adequate circulation to attract foreign 
competition or on widely -read Internet websites.   
3.97.   With a view to promoting open competitive procurement pr actices, national preference is not 
allowed in general. However, when appropriate , and if effective in building local capacity or the 
utilization of local know -how and materials, the Tenders Board may approve, on a case -by-case 
basis, the use of a margin o f preference for domestic ally manufactured goods or registered works 
contractors, as applicable. The percentage of preference in instructions or schemes issued by the 
Ministry of Finance must be between 5% and 10%. According to the authorities, the Tenders  Board 
has never approved any domestic margin of preference.  Foreign participation is traditionally 
significant in Samoa's government procurement.  In fiscal-year 2017/18,  for example,  foreign 
companies were awarded 51.7% of procurement contracts  for goods,  21.8% for works and 40.2%  
for consulting services . 
3.98.   The Procurement Guidelines encourage the Tenders Board to develop procedures for 
electronic procurement, including bid submission, advertisement and disclosure of information on 
procurement, rules, polici es and practices.  
3.99.   The heads of procuring entities must appoint a bid evaluation committee. Under the 
Instructions, procurement must be conducted according to the following principles: open and fair 
competition, wide participation by eligible parties, transparency, accountability, responsiveness, 
consistency, effectiveness, efficiency, informed decision making, legality, and value for money. The 
contract must be awarded to the bidder having submitted the lowest evaluated and substantially 
respo nsive bid which meets the evaluation criteria as specified in the bidding documents. The full 
tender evaluation report with recommendation for award of contract must be submitted to the 
Tenders Board for approval , or recommendation to the Cabinet where app ropriate.  
3.100.   The procuring entity is responsible for calling tenders , and they are opened by the 
appropriate authority based on the level of threshold. The Evaluation Committee comprise s 
representatives from the procuring entity, the Ministry of Finance , and the Office of the Attorney 
General. In principle, the procedures to be followed depend on the thresholds established by the 
Board in its published B4 Schedule (Table 3.8). The splitting of a procurement contract is prohibited.  WT/TPR/S/386 /Rev.1  • Samoa  
 
- 47 - 
 
  Table 3.8 Public procurement methods and thresholds  
Thresholds 
(WST)  Counter -signature 
when initiating 
payment  Authority to 
approve award  Method (s) of 
procurement to 
be used  1. Calling  
2. Opening  
3. Evaluat ing 
4. Award ing 
Above 500,000  [F.K] Cabinet  Cabinet  Competitive Tender  1. Procuring entity 
2. Tenders Board  
3. Evaluation Committee  
4. Cabinet  
200,00 1 to 
500,00 0  Minister of Finance  Tenders Board  Competitive Tender  1. Procuring entity 
2. Tenders Board  
3. Evaluation Committee  
4. Tenders Board  
150,00 1 to 
200,000  Cabinet 
Minister/Financial 
Secretary  Tenders Board  Competitive Tender  1. Procuring entity 
2. Tenders Board  
3. Evaluation Committee  
4. Tenders Board  
100,00 1 to 
150,000  N/A Tenders Board  Request for 
Quotation for 
Works ; Tender for 
Goods & Related 
Services & General 
Services ; and 
Request for 
Proposal for 
Consulting Services  1. Procuring entity 
2. Tenders Board  
3. Evaluation Committee  
4. Tenders Board  
50,00 1 to 
100,000  N/A Tenders Board  
  1. Procuring entity 
2. Tenders Board  
3. Evaluation Committee  
4. Tenders Board  
5,001 to 50,000  N/A CEO   1. Procuring entity 
2. Procuring entity 
3. Evaluation Committee  
4. CEO procuring entity 
0 – 5,000 
inclusive  N/A CEO    
N/A  Not applicable.  
Source:  Government of Samoa  
3.101.   Under some limited circumstances, procuring entities may be exempted from the 
requirement to openly advertise. The Tenders Board must approve the method of procurement to 
be applied in each case. Alternative procedures comprise: limited bidding, selective bidding, 
restricted bidding, request s for quotation, procedures for low -value procurements, and special 
procedures as described in the Procurement Guidelines.  
3.102.   When determini ng the alternative procurement method, the Board must take into account 
all relevant factors , including the complexity or potential cost of the contract; any specific 
requirements of donor -funded goods or works; the unique or highly -specialized nature of t he goods 
or works; and the urgency of the need for the goods or works.  According to the authorities, 
competitive tender is consistently the main procurement method. By value, it accounted for 67.44% 
of the total procurement in 2017 -18, up from 58.29% in 20 15-16. Direct procurements are marginal, 
and accounted for less than 5% of overall procurement in 2017 -18. 
3.103.   Aggrieved suppliers can take their protests to the procuring agency . The agency must 
consider  the complaint;  respond promptly and impartially to it; try to resolve it in good faith; and 
deal with it in a way that does not prejudice the complainant 's ongoing or future participation in 
procurement. If still dissatisfied, the supplier may appeal against the decision of the procuring entity 
to a competent authority. The annual number of complaints has increased in recent years, from 
three in 2014 to 15 in 2018. However, none of the case s reached the court. The authorities indicate 
that they are in the process of establishing an independent adjudicator in ch arge of procurement 
disputes.  
3.104.   Samoa is neither a member of, nor an observer to , the Plurilateral Agreement on 
Government Procurement. According to the authorities, the country is planning to become an 
observer to it. WT/TPR/S/386 /Rev.1  • Samoa  
 
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  3.3.7   Intellectual property rights  
3.105.   The instit utional and legal framework for the protection of intellectual property rights (IPRs) 
has not substantially changed since Samoa 's accession to the WTO in 2012. The authorities have 
adopted a paperless IPR Registry. In addition, they are in the process of c onnecting to international 
registry systems , such as the Madrid System, The Hague  System, and the Patent Cooperation Treaty .  
3.106.   Responsibility for the formulation and implementation of intellectual property (IP) policy 
rests with the Registries of Companies and Intellectual Properties Division of the MCIL, in 
collaboration with relevant stakeholders. It receives applications from domestic and international 
applicants, and grants or denies IPRs. Registration fees for all IPRs are set by the MCIL. The current 
schedule was adopted in 2017. In general, application fees to register an IPR (except for designs)34 
amount to WST 300 , plus other specific fees. Decisions taken by the Registrar, in particular regarding 
the grant of IPRs , or the refusal of an application for such a grant or registration, may be appealed 
by any interested party before the Supreme Court. IPRs in Samoa are protected under the Copyright 
Act, 1998;  the Copyright Amendment Act , 2011; the IP Act , 2011; the IP Am endment Act , 2018; 
the IP Regulations , 2015; and the IP Amended Regulations , 2018 (as amended in 2011) (Table 3. 9). 
These Acts have not yet been notified to the WTO, nor has Samoa 's contact points on IP issues.  
Table 3.9 Summary of protection of IPRs , 2018  
Main 
legislation  Coverage  Duration  Selected exclusions and limitations  
Patents  
IP Act Two types of patents can be 
granted in Samoa: standard 
patents , and innovation 
patents ( utility models). 20 years from the filing date 
of the patent application.  
 Non-patentable inventions . 
 
The following, even if they are 
inventions, cannot be patented:  
• a discovery, scientific theory or 
mathematical method;  
• a scheme, rule or method for 
performing a mental act, playin g 
a game or doing business;  
• diagnostic, therapeutic and 
surgical methods for the 
treatment of humans or animals;  
• inventions that are contrary to 
public order or morality;  
• plants and animals, other than 
micro -organisms;  
• biological processes for the 
producti on of plants or animals, 
other than non -biological and 
microbiological processes;  
• inventions that are likely to cause 
serious environmental harm;  and 
• mere discovery: of a new form of 
a known substance which does 
not result in the enhancement of 
the known substance; or of the 
mere use of a known process, 
machine or apparatus unless 
such process results in a new 
product or employ s at least one 
new reactant.  
                                                
34 Application fees for designs registration amount to WST 30 for a single article and WST 50 for a set of 
articles.  WT/TPR/S/386 /Rev.1  • Samoa  
 
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  Main 
legislation  Coverage  Duration  Selected exclusions and limitations  
 An invention can be 
patented as a  standard 
patent if it is:  
• new; 
• involves an inventive 
step; and 
• is industrially 
applicable , i.e. useful 
and applicable in any 
industry.    
Utility models  (referred to as innovation patent in Samoa)  
IP Act An invention qualifies for an 
innovation patent if it is:  
• new; and  
• industrially applicable.  
 
An innovation patent is a 
shorter -term right that can 
be used for a product with a 
short market life (e.g. 
technology that may be 
quickly superseded) or to 
protect each step in the 
development of new 
technology before the final 
product is completed.  An innovation patent 
expires, without  the 
possibility of renewal, at the 
end of the seventh year 
after the date of the filing of 
the application.   
Trademarks  
IP Act Includes: any letter, word, 
name, signature, numeral, 
device, brand, heading, 
label, ticket, aspect of 
packaging, shape, colour, 
sound, scent or taste, or 
any combination of them , 
capable of being 
represented graphically; 
and capable of 
distinguishing the goods or 
services of one person from 
those of another in the 
course of trade.  10 years from the date of 
registration.  
The registration of a mark 
may, upon request, be 
renewed for consecutive 
periods of 10  years , upon 
the payment of the 
determined renewal fee.  A trade mark cannot be registered for 
various reasons , which include the 
following. The trade mark is:  
• likely to deceive or cause 
confusion amongst consumers 
and traders ; 
• identical to an already registered 
mark belonging to another 
proprietor ; 
• considered to be contrary to 
public order or morality , i.e. 
considered offensive or violates 
commonly  accepted norms ; or 
• based on matai titles, names of 
persons or Samoan villages, or 
religious words or symbols.   
If an application is made for  
the registration of a 
collective mark, the 
registered owner must 
designate the mark as a 
collective mark and  must 
provide a copy of the rules 
governing the use of the 
collective mark.    
Industrial design s 
IP Act The design of any aspect of 
the shape, pattern or 
configuration (whether 
internal or external) of the 
whole or part of an article, 
not includ ing a method or 
principle of construction , or 
the features of shape or the 
configuration of an article 
which are dictated solely by 
the function which the 
article has to perform , or 
are dependent upon the 
appearance of another 
article of which the article is Design right s expire 
15 years from the end of 
the calendar year in which 
the design was first 
recorded in a design 
document or an article was 
first made to the design, 
whichever occurred  first. A design cannot be registered if:  
• it is contrary to public order or 
moralit y;  
• it is based on matai titles, names 
of persons or Samoan villages, or 
religious words or symbols ; or 
• it is identical to an armorial 
bearing, flag or other emblem, a 
name or abbreviation of the 
name , or a hallmark.   WT/TPR/S/386 /Rev.1  • Samoa  
 
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  Main 
legislation  Coverage  Duration  Selected exclusions and limitations  
intended by the designer to 
form an integral part.  
Copyrights and related rights  
Copyright 
Act, 1998 
(last 
amended 
in 2011)  Protected works include 
the following:  
Books, pamphlets, articles, 
computer programs, and 
other writings, speeches, 
lectures, addresses, 
sermons and other oral 
works, dramatic, 
dramatico -musical works, 
pantomimes, choreographic 
works and other works 
created for stage 
productions, stage 
producti ons of works and of 
expressions of folklore that 
are apt for such 
productions, musical works, 
with or without 
accompanying words, 
audiovisual works, works of 
architecture, works of 
drawing, painting, 
sculpture, engraving, 
lithography, tapestry and 
other wo rks of fine art, 
photographic works, works 
of applied art, illustrations, 
maps, plans, sketches and 
three-dimensional works 
relative to geography, 
topography architecture or 
science.  
Protection also applies 
to derivative works:  
translations, adaptations, 
arrangements and other 
transformations or 
modifications of works; and 
collections of works and 
collections of mere data 
(data bases), whether in 
machine readable or other 
form, provided that such 
collections are original by 
reason of the selection, 
coordina tion or 
arrangement of their 
contents.  Literary, artistic, musical 
works: author 's life and 
75 years after his/her 
death.  
 
Publisher 's works: 75  years 
after first publication.  
 
Works of applied art: 
25 years from the making of 
the work . 
 
Collective works: 75 years 
from the making of the 
work. 
 
Joint authorship: life of the 
author and 75 years after 
his/her death  No protection shall be extend ed under 
the Act to:  
• any idea, procedure, system, 
method of operation, concept, 
principle, discovery or mere data, 
even if expressed, described, 
explained, illustrated or embodied 
in a work; or  
 
• any official text of a legislative, 
administrative or legal nature, as 
well as any official translation 
thereof.  
Geographical indications  (GIs)  
IP Act Any natural or agricultural 
product or any product of 
handicraft or industry, if 
some quality, reputation or 
other characteristic of the 
product is essentially 
attributable to its 
geographical origin . Registration does not 
provide any  exclusive  
protection for the registered 
owner – producers in that 
area still have the right to 
use the GI for their 
products, as long as their 
product also has the quality, 
reputation or other 
characteristic of the 
registered GI.   WT/TPR/S/386 /Rev.1  • Samoa  
 
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  Main 
legislation  Coverage  Duration  Selected exclusions and limitations  
Plant breeders ' rights  
IP Act Any agricultural, forestry or 
aquatic plants meeting the 
following requirements:  
1. the variety is  clearly 
distinguishable from 
any other variety ;  
2. all of the plants of the 
variety at the same 
propagation stage are 
sufficiently uniform in 
their relevant 
chara cteristics ;  
3. all of the expressions of 
the characteristics of 
the variety remain 
unchanged after 
repeated propagation ; 
and 
4. propagat ed or 
harvested material of 
the variety has not 
been sold or otherwise 
disposed of to others, 
by, or with the consent 
of, the breeder, for 
purposes of 
exploitation of the 
variety:  Duration of breeders ' rights 
of plants is 20  years. The 
owner may apply to the  
Registrar to extend the 
period of protection beyond 
20 years.  The plant breeder 's right shall not 
extend to:  
• acts done privately and for non -
commercial purposes;  
• acts done for experimental 
purposes; or  
• acts done for the purpose of 
breeding other varietie s. 
 
• in Samoa, earlier 
than 1 year before 
the date of filing 
the application; 
and 
• in a territory other 
than Samoa, 
earlier than 4 
years or, in the 
case of trees or of 
vines, earlier than 
6 years before 
said date.    
Layout design s of integrated circuits  
IP Act Layout  designs of 
integrated circuits are 
registrable to the extent 
that they are original . Protection of a layout  design 
expires at the end of the 
10th calendar year after the 
date of commencement of 
the protection.  No layout  design or integrated circuit 
which has been commercially 
exploited, anywhere in the world, for 
more than two (2) years prior to the 
entry into force of this Act may be 
registered.  
Source:  WTO Secretariat , based on the IP Act, and the Copyright Act , 1998.  
3.107.   The IP Act provides for the granting and registration of patents, utility models, layout design 
of integrated circuits, plant breeders ' rights , and industrial designs in Samoa. At the time of Samoa 's 
accession to the WTO, the authorities stated that undisclosed information and trade secrets were 
protected under the common law actions relating to confidential information and trade secrets. 
Accordi ng to the authorities, efforts are ongoing to adopt legislation on the protection of traditional 
knowledge and traditional cultural expressions, which has a trade secret protection component.  
3.108.   Except for trademarks, there have been few applications and regi strations of patents, 
industrial designs and utility models (Table 3.10).  WT/TPR/S/386 /Rev.1  • Samoa  
 
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  Table 3.10 IPR applications and registration s  
 Applications (number)  Registrations (number)  
Year 2012  2013  2014  2015  2016  2012  2013  2014  2015  2016  
National and international patents  
By 
residents  0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 
By non -
residents  25 4 0 4 0 22 5 1 0 0 
Total  25 4 0 4 0 22 5 1 0 0 
Industrial design s 
By 
residents  3 2 5 0 2 3 0 4 1 0 
By non -
residents  0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 
Total  3 2 5 0 2 3 0 4 1 0 
Utility models  
By 
residents  0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 
By non -
residents  0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 
Total  0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 
Trademark s 
By 
residents  24 21 21 14 21 5 19 20 9 10 
By non -
residents  259 200 116 189 106 127 377 207 68 203 
Total  283 221 137 203 127 132 396 227 77 213 
Source:  Information provided by the authorities.  
3.109.   The Act allows for compulsory licensing. The Minister of Commerce, Industry and Labour 
may grant a licen ce to a government agency or a third person, even without the consent of the 
owner of the patent, provided that: the public interest so requires; or the Minister has determined 
that the manner of exploitation by the owner of the patent or the licensee is an ti-competitive; and 
the Minister is satisfied that the exploitation of the invention would remedy the practice. No 
compulsory licenses have ever been granted for patents in Samoa.  
3.110.   The Act also provides for the parallel importation of patented medicines. Th e Minister may 
decide, even without the consent of the owner of the patent, and after a notification to the WTO 
Council for TRIPS, to grant a government agency or a third person designated by the Minister the 
right to import, offer for sale, sell, stock or  use a patented pharmaceutical product . However, Samoa 
has never experienced such situation.  
3.111.   Trademark protection is acquired by registration. However, a trademark may acquire 
distinctiveness through use , and, consequently , protection. Well-known marks are also protected.  
3.112.   Samoa does not have an established collective management organization. However, the 
authorities stated that discussions are ongoing.  
3.113.   Samoa has not notified its checklist of issues on the enforcement of IPRs. The IP Act contains 
provisions dealing with civil procedures and remedies; provisional measures; administrative 
procedures and remedies ; and criminal penalties. The Act prohibits counterfeiting, and trade and all 
other dealings in counterfeit goods.  
3.114.   Courts are the primary authorities responsible for carrying out IPR enforcement. Any 
enforcement action undertaken to terminate the production of counterfeit goods, or to prevent IPR 
violation, or where it is imminent, may be initiated by the owner of an IPR or his licen see, if the 
licensee has requested the owner to institute court proceedings for specific relief and the owner has 
refused or failed to do so. The court may grant an injunction to prevent infringement, an imminent 
infringement, or an unlawful act , and may a ward damages and grant any other remedy provided for 
in the general law. A person who knowingly violat es an IPR , wilfully or by gross negligence , and for WT/TPR/S/386 /Rev.1  • Samoa  
 
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  profit -making purposes, is liable to a fine of WST 100,000 and/or five years imprisonment. There 
are also means of administrative enforcement. Several enforcement actions have been taken since 
2012.  
3.115.   Customs is responsible for border enforcement on the import, export and transit of infringing 
goods. Right holders may lodge an application with Customs to su spend the release of goods 
suspected of infringing IPRs. The Customs Act specifically refers to border protection measures for 
unlawfully imported goods or forfeited goods In April 2018, the Ministry for Revenue published 
procedures with respect to IPR enf orcement: "Where the Comptroller has reasonable grounds to 
suspect that imported goods under the control of Customs contain infringing copyright material, 
infringing right material, an infringing sign or design, the Comptroller must send a written notice t o 
the agent or rightful IP holder including the MCIL to inform them of suspected infringement against 
their products. Timeframe for submission of response is 7 working days. "35 
3.116.   In 2012, Samoa adopted the National Intellectual Property Strategy, which aims to: 
moderniz e the country 's IP legislative and administrative arrangements to comply with the standards 
set out in the TRIPS Agreement; provid e better protection to Samoan traditional knowledge and 
traditional cultural expressions, consistent with existing international norms; strengthen the capacity 
of Samoan stakeholder s regarding the strategic development of businesses; and improv e the scope 
of copyright works through better compliance with IP protection norms. Several actions have been 
implemented, in li ne with the Strategy. These include the adoption of a paperless IP registry system, 
efforts to establish a collective management organization for copyrights issues and  plans to adopt 
new legislation on traditional knowledge.  
3.117.   Samoa is a party to: the Paris Convention for the Protection of Industrial Property 
(21 September 2013), the Berne Convention for the Protection of Literary and Artistic Works 
(21 July 2006), and the Convention Establishing the World Intellectual Property Organization 
(11 October 1997). Achieving compliance with the Paris Convention formed  a key part of the IP 
legislative review and moderni zation process, which led to the Industrial Property Act in 2011. During 
the process to accede to the WTO, Samoa recognized that cooperation with other Forum Group 
countries in the area of IP protection w ould be useful, as well as membership of the Patent 
Cooperation Treaty, the Madrid Protocol and The Hague  Agreement. On 4 December 2018, the 
Government deposited its instrument of accession to the Madrid Protocol . 
 
                                                
35 Ministry for Revenue o nline information. Viewed at: 
http://www.revenue.gov.ws/images/2015/Business_Forms/New_2018/Websi te_Photos_2018/GEN0010 ---
Clearance -of-Trademark -and-Copyright -Goods -SOP.pdf . WT/TPR/S/386 /Rev.1  • Samoa  
 
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  4  TRADE POLICIES BY SE CTOR  
4.1  Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries  
4.1.1   Agriculture  
4.1.  Agriculture contributed 7.7% to GDP in 2017/18 (Table 1.1).1 The climate is tropical, rainfall is 
abundant, and the country has fertile volcanic soils ; however, Samoa is particularly vulnerable to 
natural disasters. In 2009, it was struck by a devastating tsunami , causing loss of lives and great 
damage to the infra structure. In December 2012, it was hit by category 5 Cyclone Evan, which 
caused damages and losses estimated at about 28% of GDP.2 In February 2017, category 1 Cyclone 
Gita struck , and a state of emergency was declared. Water and electricity supply, build ings, and 
agriculture were affected.  
4.2.  According to the last agricultural census held in 2009, the agricultural area , including 
plantations , was approximately 29,642 ha , with 23,164 farms.3 Samoa 's agriculture is mainly 
subsistence production on customary land, although there are a few commercial plantations. The 
main crops are taro, coconuts, and bananas. Other staple and cash crops include root crops (taamu, 
cassava, yam, and sweet potatoes), breadfruit, fruit and vegetables, cocoa , and kava. Li vestock 
production is small -scale and village -based. Samoa does not have a commercial dairy. Most of the 
meat and dairy products are imported, and the country is not self -sufficient in eggs.4 
4.3.  Samoa has become increasingly dependent on food imports, which i ncreased from 
USD 82.4 million in 2012 to USD 92.9 million in 2017 (Table 4.1). The top import item, by far, is 
poultry meat. Imports far outstrip exports of agricultural products, which varied between 
USD 9.0 million and USD 12.1 million in the period 2012-17. Taro has emerged as the number one 
export product (USD 4.2 million in 2017), reflecting a significant increase in the harvested area in 
recent years. Coconut oil exports, on the other hand, fell in 2013 , due to Cyclone Evan, and have 
not yet recovere d. 
Table 4.1 Trade in agricultural products (WTO definition), 2012 -17 
  2012  2013  2014  2015  2016  2017  
Exports (USD '000) 10,195.8  10,462.5  9,027.8  12,152.7  9,789.8  11,826.0  
% of total exports  13.4  16.8  17.7  20.6  17.5  26.6  
Top five exports by HS 4 -digit code (% of total agricultural exports)     
0714 - Taro and similar roots and tubers  3.8  6.1  11.9  19.0  37.7  35.5  
2203 - Beer made from malt  25.6  46.9  28.0  21.1  14.7  16.3  
2009 - Fruit and vegetable juices  3.1  13.7  16.3  24.9  32.6  14.3  
1513 - Coconut, palm kernel or babassu oil  33.4  5.8  16.6  9.5  8.6  7.3  
0801 - Coconuts, cashew/brazil nuts, fresh 
or dried  6.7  8.1  8.5  2.7  2.9  6.1  
Imports (USD '000) 82,404.5  92,830.2  87,831.4  91,478.1  84,472.7  92,902.0  
% of total imports  23.8  25.3  22.6  24.7  24.1  26.1  
Top five imports by HS 4 -digit code (% of total agricultural imports)     
0207 - Meat and edible offal of poultry  24.4  21.3  22.6  18.6  21.4  20.9  
1701 - Cane or beet sugar  5.2  6.3  6.2  4.8  6.6  6.1  
1905 - Bread, pastry and other bakers ' 
wares  5.2  5.1  5.0  5.7  6.3  5.8  
0204 - Meat of sheep or goats  5.0  4.5  3.7  3.9  4.6  4.8  
1101 - Wheat or meslin flour  6.1  5.4  5.2  5.3  0.0  4.8  
Source:  UNSD Comtrade database.  
                                                
1 Subsistence production is included in the agricultural GDP.  
2 Global Facility for Disaster Reduction and Recovery online information. Viewed at: 
http://www.gfdrr.org/sites/gfdrr/files/SAMOA_PDNA_Cyclone_Evan_2012.pdf .  
3 Samoa Bureau of Statistics (2009), Agriculture Census Analytical Report 2009 . Viewed at: 
http://www.sbs.gov.ws/index.php/sector -statistics/sector -statistics -docs.  
4 Samoa has laying flock of about 90,000 birds.  WT/TPR/S/386 /Rev.1  • Samoa  
 
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  4.1.1.1   Institutional and legal framework  
4.4.  The MAF has the mandate to regulate the agriculture and fisheries sectors under the provisions 
of the Agriculture and Fisheries Ordinance , 1959. The main policy objectives a re: food and income 
security; to encourage healthier diets; the sustainable use of natural resources; to enhance 
productivity, product quality, value -added and marketing; and to help farmers and fishermen 
strengthen resilience to natural disasters and clim ate change. The activities of the MAF are guided 
by the Agriculture Sector Plan 2016 -20 (the successor of the 2011 -15 plan). The MAF also has 
responsibilit y for fisheries and SPS measures.  
4.1.1.2   Domestic support  
4.5.  Samoa has outstanding notifications in the area s of domestic support and export subsidies. To 
date, it has provided a notification on domestic support for the years 2012/13 and 2013/14.5 The 
notification lists Green Box general services (research, pest and disease control, extension and 
advisory services,  and inspection services) , with expenditures totalling WST 600,365 in 2012/13 and 
WST 476,487 in 2013/14.  
4.6.  Following Cyclone Evan in 2012, the Government provided disaster relief to farmers under the 
Agriculture and Fishing Cyclone Recovery Programme (AFCRP), funded by the World Bank. This 
Programme provided electronic vouchers to affected farmers based on a survey of how badly they 
were affected by the cyclone, to enable them to purchase farm equipment and household tools.   
4.7.  In the state budget for fiscal year 2017/18, total appropriations for the MAF amounted to 
WST 14.1 million (of which , WST 2.25 million was earmarked for fisheries).  The MAF budget provides 
funding for specific projects, including the Stimulus Package; the Agricultural Development Project; 
the Rhinoceros Beetle Control Program; the Breadfruit Propagation and Replanting Program ; and 
the Replanting of Coconuts  Program . The Stimulus Package is a government -funded scheme, which 
started in 2010, aimed at rehabili tating coconut, cocoa and coffee plantings. It targets 500 farmers. 
Registered farmers receive free planting material (50 coconut seedlings and 750 cocoa seedlings per 
two acres), subject to specific programme requirements.   
4.8.  Improved varieties of tradition al crops (hybrid coconuts, coffee, cocoa, breadfruit, taro, 
cocoyam, and yam), fruit and vegetables, and livestock (cattle, breeding sheep, weaner pigs, and 
chicks) were also distributed , at concessional rates or free of charge , under MAF programmes or 
development projects, such as the Samoa Agriculture Competitiveness Enhancement Project 
(SACEP) . This Project  was implemented from 2012 to 2018 , with funding by the World Bank of 
approximately USD  16.16  million, aimed at supporting fruit and vegetable growers  and livestock 
producers to improve productivity and take advantage of market opportunities.6 Also under the 
SACEP, the Development Bank of Samoa (DBS) provides, together with the Small Business 
Enterprise Centre (SBEC), matching grants and loan guaranties  to farmers.   
4.9.  In terms of incentives, the Government offers tariff exemptions to commercial poultry farmers 
for imports of feed and packaging materials ( the Code 121 incentive scheme). Tariff exemptions on 
imports of raw materials are also available to eli gible manufacturers of agricultural products 
(Code  121) (Section 3. 3.1). 
4.1.1.3   Export subsidies  
4.10.   Samoa notified the Committee on Agriculture that no export subsidies were provided for 
agricultural products in 2012/13 and 2013/14.7 No export subsidies are granted at present, 
according to the authorities.  
                                                
5 WTO document G/AG/N/WSM/1, 25 November 2014 . 
6 The SACEP  is to be succeeded by the Samoa Agriculture and Fisheries Productivity and Marketing 
Project (SAFPROM).  
7 WTO document G/AG/N/WSM/2, 24 November 2014.  WT/TPR/S/386 /Rev.1  • Samoa  
 
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  4.1.1.4   State -owned enterprises (SOEs)  
4.11.   The Samoa Trust Estates Corporation  (STEC) , established pursuant to the  Samoa Trust 
Estates Corporation Act , 1977 , disposes of 6,500 acres of land, of which 1,000 are for lease. It is 
also involved in agricultural production (Section 3.3.5.1 ).  
4.12.   The Agriculture Store Corporation (ASC) was privatized in April 2016. Prior to that, it operated 
as a supplier of agricultural tools , equipment, and inputs ( feed, seeds, fertili zer, and pestic ides), 
competing with private sector suppliers. It was also a producer of bananas , for both the local market 
and export.   
4.1.2   Forestry  
4.13.   Of Samoa 's total land area of 284,123 hectares, 165,049 ha are covered with forests, 
according to the last forest inventory o f 2014.8 According to the FAO, "several countries, especially 
in Asia (e.g. Samoa, Sri Lanka and Thailand), refrain completely or in large degree from harvesting 
their natural forests, deriving local timber from planted sources ".9 Forest plantations exist on public 
land/conservation areas , such as the Cornwall Estate in Masamasa and Falelima (Savai 'i), and in 
Togitogiga (Upolu). There are also several plantations on customary land.  
4.14.   The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment is responsible for forest ry management , 
in accordance with the Forestry Management Act , 2011. Draft management regulations and a 
forestry plan (pursuant to Section 29 of the Act) are under preparation. Logging rights are 
administered by the Ministry. On plantations, a harvesting p ermit is required, subject to a natural 
resource fee of WST 2.59/m3. Logging of indigenous forests is subject to licensing and payment of 
the natural resource fee (WST 7.77/m3 for native trees).  Samoa 's annual timber production is about 
800 m3, according t o the authorities.  
4.15.   Samoa maintains, for public interest reasons, a ban on the export of logs and timber, under 
the provisions of Section 7310 of the Customs Act , 1977 (Order Prohibiting the Export of Logs , 1990). 
Imports are mainly semi -processed timber to meet construction needs (Table 4.2 ). Ownership and 
operation of saw mills constitutes an activity reserved for Samoans under the Foreign Investment 
Act, 2000. There are currently nine saw mills operating in Samoa.  
Table 4.2 Trade in forestry products, 2012 -17 
USD 
  2012  2013  2014  2015  2016  2017  
Exports        
Wood fuel, chips, particle s and 
residues (HS 4401 and 4402)  153  143  0  0  0  1,200  
Wood in the rough (HS4403)  0  0  0  80,809  44,942  1,030  
Semi-processed wood (HS4406, 4407  
and 4409)  13,249  4,273  38,149  11,924  9,340  24,710  
Wood pulp (HS47)  0  43  0  170  173  1,463  
Paper (HS48)  2,240  139,407  19,377  50,527  16,976  19,351  
Printed books (HS49)  3,518  10,043  1,670  49,179  37,614  38,696  
Imports        
Wood fuel, chips, particle s and 
residues (HS 4401 and 4402)  242,117  53,859  83,432  45,104  36,304  4,091  
Wood in the rough (HS4403)  798,050  1,291,973  779,528  819,183  650,644  471,555  
Semi-processed wood (HS4406, 4407  
and 4409)  6,994,511  8,148,105  8,162,196  5,834,396  5,993,396  7,712,800  
Wood pulp (HS47)  0  191  3,295  1,678  2,267  685  
Paper (HS48)  5,755,248  6,821,412  5,694,165  6,426,451  5,593,229  5,883,477  
Printed books (HS49)  3,690,754  1,922,655  1,887,127  1,226,719  1,206,814  6,151,211  
Source:  UNSD Comtrade database  
                                                
8 Native forests, 123,864 ha; plantation forests, 5,043 ha; secondary forests, 36,142 ha; and non -
native  forests, 118,121 ha.  
9 FAO online information , page 190 . Viewed at: http://www.fao.org/3/a -i3825e.pdf .  
10 Section 73 excerpt: "73. Prohibited exports - (1) The Head of State may from time to time, by Order, 
prohibit the exportation of any goods: … (b) Being goods the prohibition of the exportation of whic h is, in the 
Head of State's opinion, necessary for the preservation of the flora  and fauna of Samoa; …"  WT/TPR/S/386 /Rev.1  • Samoa  
 
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  4.1.3   Fisheries  
4.16.   The fishery sector is one of the pillars of the Samoan economy, contributing approximately 
3% to GDP and close to 30% of mercha ndise exports  in 2017/18 . The main offshore fishery is tuna 
long-line fishery, which accounts for over 90% of fish exports by volume and value. Since 2015, 
Samoa 's fish exports have increased considerably (Chart 4.1), mainly owing to catches by foreign 
fleets in the high seas and the Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZs) of other countries, which were 
landed in Apia , together with the catch in the Samoa n EEZ (120,000 km2). Most of the albacore tuna 
catch is exported to, and processed in canneries in , American Samoa. Samoa is a member, inter 
alia, of the Pacific Island Forum Fisher ies Agency, and the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries 
Commission (WCPFC).  
Chart 4.1 Fish catch and exports of fish, 2012 -17 
 
Source:  Data provided by the authorities.  
4.17.   The Fisheries Division is responsible for the management, conservation, licensing, and 
development of Samoa 's fisheries resources. The Commercial Fisheries Management Advi sory 
Committee (CFMAC), composed of government and private representatives, meets quarterly to 
discuss, inter alia , sustainable management issues. Samoa adopted the Fisheries Management Act , 
2016.11 Implementing regulations are under development, according to the authorities. The fisheries 
legislation is supported by oceanic and coastal plans , setting out the rules and management 
measures applic able to commercial fishery. The Samoa Tuna Management and Development Plan 
for 2017 -21 establishes a total allowable catch for albacore in the Samoan EEZ , of 4,820 ton nes per 
year.12 There is also a management arrangement for fishing vessels , with a 24 -nautical mile zone 
from the coas t allocated for smaller fishing vessels of 12.5  metres and below in length.  The 
Community -based Fisheries Management Program empowers local coastal village communities to 
manage fisheries resources in their coastal areas.   
4.18.   Samoa 's licensing regime provides  for five classes of Samoa -flag fishing vessels , with a cap 
on each class, as established in the tuna management plan (Table 4.3).13 Foreign investment in 
domestic fishing vessels is restricted to 40% equity (Table A2.1).  Category F licences are designated 
                                                
11 The Act repeals the Fisheries Act, 1988 and the Fisheries (Ban of Driftnet Fishing) Act, 1999.  
12 The Total allowable catch is allocated as follows: 482 tonnes for artisanal vessels, including Classes A 
and B; 2,410 tonnes for the  domestic commercial fleet (Classes C, D and E); 964 tonnes for the foreign fleet 
(Class F), and 964 tonnes for domestic development.  
13 Samoa has an online portal for licence applications (foreign and domestic). Viewed at: 
https://licensing.tklapp.com/ws/ .  
WT/TPR/S/386 /Rev.1  • Samoa  
 
- 58 - 
 
  for foreign -flagged fishing vessels.14 Samoa has one fishing access agreement since 2015 with a 
foreign company. Under this bilateral agreement, foreign fishing vessels managed and operated by 
the company are allowed to fish in Samoa 's EEZ. The agreement al so established a facility to process 
and store the catches unloaded from their foreign fishing vessels for export.  
Table 4.3 Samoa 's licensing regime for offshore tuna fishery  
Gross 
registered 
tonnage  Class  Vessel size  Licence cap  
2010 -14 Licence cap  
2015 -20 Licences used 
in 2018  Licence fees 
(WST)  
0-10 A <11m in length  100 100 44 200 
 
 
10-50 B >11m <12.5m in 
length  10 10 0 500 
C >12.5m <15m in 
length  10 10 1 5,500  
D >15m <20.5m in 
length  12 12 7 8,000  
 
50-200 E >20.5m in length  5 5 4 10,000  
F Foreign -flagged 
vessels   Subject to access 
agreement  14 USD 15,000  
Source:  Information provided by the authorities . 
4.19.   The simple average applied MFN tariff on fish and fishery products (18.6% in 2018) is higher 
than Samoa 's (overall) average applied MFN tariff of 11.5% (Table A3.1).  In addition to tariff 
protection, commercial fishing enterprises with an annual turnover of least WST 78,000 benefit from 
tariff exemptions on fishing gear, bait, and marine sa fety, navigational and electronic equipment 
(Code 113 of the Customs Act).  
4.2  Mining and Energy  
4.2.1   Mining  
4.20.   The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment is responsible for mining issues in Samoa. 
The country has few known mineral deposits. In the past, some d eep-sea mineral investigations 
were undertaken to assess the potential for manganese nodules, phosphate, cobalt -rich crusts , and 
other deep -sea minerals. However, no tangible result has been achieved to date. The Government 
does not have specific policy, l egislation or regulations for the governance of mining activities.  
4.2.2   Energy  
4.21.   In 2015, 83% of Samoa 's energy demand was met by petroleum products, 14% by biomass, 
and the remaining 3% by hydropower, solar, wind and other renewables.15 Of the total primary 
energ y supplied, about 22% was used for electricity generation.   
4.22.   The transport and residential sectors are the main energy consumers. In 2015, they 
accounted for 53% and 14%, respectively, of the total net energy supplied, while the combined 
commercial, industr ial and government sectors accounted for 5.8%.  
4.23.   In 2012, Samoa adopted the Energy Sector Plan for 2012 -16; the current version, which was 
issued in 2017 , covers the period 2017 -22. Its primary objective is to provide comprehensive 
guidance for the energy s ector to deliver outcomes consistent with the overarching Strategy for the 
Development of Samoa (SDS) (Section 1). In 2017, the Energy Efficiency Act was adopted , with a 
view to, inter alia,  setting up energy -efficiency standards , and promoting the use of products, brands 
and models that could facilitate the efficient use of energy.16 According to the authorities, import 
duties are suspended for materials imported in the context of renewable energy projects.  
4.24.   The authorities state that the first Plan helped i mprove the institutional framework in the 
sector through better coordination among the stakeholders. While it sought to reduce the growth 
                                                
14 Foreign ships must be registered in the WCPF C record of fishing vessel (RFV) and the Pacific Island 
Forum Fisheries Agency register.  
15 Samoa Energy Review  2015, Government of Samoa.  
16 Parliament of Samoa online information. Viewed at: http://www.palemene.ws/new/wp -
content/uploads/Energy -Efficiency -Act-2017-Eng.pdf .  WT/TPR/S/386 /Rev.1  • Samoa  
 
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  rate of the volume of imported fossil fuels by 10% by 2016, actual figures showed an increase of 
13.5%.  
4.25.   The Energy Po licy and Coordination Management Division (EPCMD) , within the Ministry of 
Finance , is responsible for the planning, implementation and oversight of the national energy policy , 
including the Energy Sector Plan.  
4.26.   The National Energy Coordination Committee (N ECC) serves as the umbrella institution in 
charge of overseeing the different ministries, corporations, and organizations that administer 
energy -related resources, projects and services at different levels. Its functions include: advising 
the Government on  the energy governance framework; overseeing energy sector management to 
ensure better coordination; and recommending initiatives for efficient public actions in the sector. 
The NECC membership consists of representatives from key ministries and agencies.  
4.2.2.1   Electricity  
4.27.   Electricity is generated primarily from diesel thermal plants on Upolu, Savai 'i and Manono 
Island s. In addition, there is a hydro generation plant with one major dam -fed generator on the east 
of Upolu. In 201 8, diesel thermal plants accounted for 51% of the total power supplied. The 
contribution of renewable energy sources was 49%, with 35% from hydroelectricity and the 
remainder coming from solar plants.  
4.28.   The electricity sector is regulated through the Electri city Act , 2010.17 It provides for the 
establishment of the Electricity Regulator at the OoTR18, which is responsible for the development 
of energy policies, legislation and regulations , to guide the development of energy services. The Act 
also enables the El ectricity Regulator to set tariffs and issue licences for new electricity generators 
(independent power producers - IPPs) or operators of independent electricity networks. The 
transmission and distribution segments are not open to private sector participat ion. A person wishing 
to generate electricity other than for their own use or wishing to provide electricity network services 
must apply in writing to the Regulator for a licence . 
4.29.   The Electric Power Corporation Act , 1980 regulates the functions, operations  and other related 
matters of the Electric Power Corporation (EPC), including its role in the generation, supply and use 
of electricity. The EPC currently establishes and maintains all infrastructures for the transmission 
and distribution of electrical pow er. It purchases power in bulk from IPPs, through power purchasing 
agreements (PPAs) approved by the Regulator. Some consumers (households, businesses or 
communities), with installed generators (often solar panels), may provide electrical energy for their 
own use; the EPC has developed interconnection agreements with consumers , whereby their surplus 
electricity is fed into the EPC system. The EPC has a total installed capacity of 50  MW (megawatts) 
from the main diesel generation station at Fiaga, hydropower  plant operation s and small solar 
projects. IPPs have a total installed capacity of 14  MW from solar farms.  
4.30.   The Electricity Regulator is responsible for setting, changing and reviewing all tariffs charged 
by electricity licensees in Samoa, after reviewing  and considering stakeholders ' input, through public 
consultations. The current tariff structure comprises three components: a debt charge, a usage 
charge , and an energy charge. Based on monthly fuel cost movements, the Regulator reviews and 
approves the e nergy charge on a monthly basis.  
4.31.   In 2015, the EPC submitted a multi -year tariff proposal to the OoTR , with proposed changes 
to electricity tariffs for the years 2015/2016, 2016/2017 and 2017/2018. The multi -year tariff was 
approved through the Order of the  Regulator No. 2015/E29, which provided for a total reduction on 
end-use customer tariffs by the third regulated financial year 2017/2018. Table  4.4 shows the 
current electricity tariff rates. These  rates have three components: the energy charge component,  
which covers the variable costs of electricity generation, mainly the fuel and lube oil costs of the 
diesel generators and the payments to IPPs; the debt charge component, which covers the 
                                                
17 OoTR online information. Viewed at: https://www.regulator.gov.ws/images/Act/Electricity -Act--
2010.pdf .  
18 The OoTR is the Regulator for the telecommunications, electricity, broadcasting and p ostal sectors in 
Samoa.  WT/TPR/S/386 /Rev.1  • Samoa  
 
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  repayments of loans contracted by the MoF for electricity developm ent projects; and the usage 
charge component, which covers EPC 's operating and capital costs.  
Table 4.4 Electricity tariff rates , 2018  
Domestic  Debt charge  Usage charge  Energy charge  Total  
Induction meters  Senea/unit Sene/ unit Sene/ unit  
All units  0.07 0.26 0.48 0.81 
Cash power meters      
1-100 0.07 0.12 0.48 0.67 
100 and over  0.07 0.26 0.48 0.81 
Non-domestic post -paid meters      
All units  0.07 0.36 0.48 0.91 
Cash power meters      
All units 0.07 0.26 0.48 0.81 
a Equal to 1/100 of one WST.  
Source:  Information provided by the authorities.  
4.2.2.2   Petroleum  
4.32.   There is no upstream oil industry in Samoa; the country has no source of oil or gas, and it 
imports all its petroleum requirements, including biofuels .  
4.33.   The Petroleum Act , 1984 regulates the petroleum sector; it makes provision for the supply, 
transport and storage of petroleum. The MoF administers the Act , and oversees the issuance of 
petroleum licences, and the coordina tion and circulation of monthly fuel price notices.  
4.34.   The Government owns all the petroleum storage facilities and  tenders out their operation to 
a supplier and distributer every five years. A tender process is carried out to select and award 
marketing righ ts of petrol, diesel, and jet fuel. Following a competitive tendering in 2018, imports 
of petroleum products are currently handled exclusively by Exxon Mobil. Petroleum Products Samoa 
(PPS), a local company, has the exclusive right to distribute petroleum fuels in Samoa. The 
Government maintains a minimum operational stock of 1 2 days of petroleum products , with a view 
to ensuring their short -term supply in case of disruption of supply. The stock is maintained by the 
PPS on behalf of the Government.  
4.35.   Samoa im ports its petroleum products mainly from Singapore and the Republic of Korea. They 
are pumped from Apia Wharf via pipelines to the fuel storage tanks at the Wharf, and then to the 
Sogi fuel depot. The country 's current storage capacity is 8,400 MT for dies el, 5,400 MT for petrol, 
and 2,400 MT for dual purpose kerosene (DPK). Savai 'i's fuel requirements are delivered by barge 
from the Salelologa fuel depot. Distribution to end -users, service stations, the EPC, and commercial 
customers is undertaken by PPS 's road tankers.  
4.36.   Health, safety, security and environmental standards are in place for petrol service stations, 
and monthly checks are carried out to ensure they comply with the requirements.   
4.37.   Petroleum price notices are published monthly by the MoF. Samoa applies no restrictions on 
foreign investments in the petroleum sector.  
4.3  Manufacturing  
4.38.   Samoa 's manufacturing sector contributed less than 8% to GDP in 2017/18, down from 11% 
in 2012/13. The ke y sub‐sectors include agro ‐processed food, beverages, tobacco, and clothing. The 
only substantial exports from the sector in recent years have been beer and automobile harnesses , 
directed mainly to American Samoa and Australia. In 2017, Yazaki, an automoti ve parts company 
(producing automobile harnesses), which had been Samoa 's largest private employer, closed its 
operation. As a consequence, the total value of Samoa 's exports dropped from USD 76.1 million in 
2012 to USD 44.4 million in 2017 (Section  1). The sector faces high costs of doing business, arising 
from high freight costs, lack of economies of scale, infrastructure, and venture capital.  
4.39.   The lead agency for the sector is the MCIL. It provides policy support and regulates the sector 
via its differe nt mandates and policies. In addition, the Samoa Association of Manufacturers  and WT/TPR/S/386 /Rev.1  • Samoa  
 
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  Exporters  (SAME)  assists its members for the development of an efficient, profitable, competitive, 
and quality -based expanding sector.  
4.40.   In 2012, the Government adopted the Tra de, Commerce, and Manufacturing Sector Plan 
(TCMSP) 2012 -16, followed , in 2017 , by the second version for 2017/18 -2020/21. The Plan is aimed 
at diversifying the country 's production base and put ting in place an inter -governmental coordination 
mechanism for  its implementation, through increased structural transformation, value -addition 
activities, exports, and sector coordination. The TCMSP is the implementation plan sectoral 
translation of the SDS.  
4.41.   Government assistance schemes have been created to assist a nd encourage businesses and 
industries in the production and export of manufactured products ( Section  3.3.1).  
4.4  Services  
4.42.   The services sector contributed to around 70% of GDP , and accounted for around 88% of 
Samoa 's total employment , in 2017.  
4.43.   During Samoa 's accession to the WTO, it made substantial commitments under the GATS. Its 
specific commitments cover some 70 subsectors.19 Fully open and non -discriminatory regimes are 
bound in a range of services subsectors, mainly in the area s of business, communications,  
educational , and construction services. The full commitments are made without limitations on 
market access or national treatment, except for mode 4, which is governed by Samoa 's horizontal 
commitments. In addition, Samoa has undertaken a number of "partia l" commitments , in areas such 
as financial services,  and tourism and travel -related services , where certain modes of supply are 
unbound or subject to other limitations.  
4.44.   Under its horizontal GATS commitments that apply to all service subsectors, Samoa has 
scheduled reservations with respect to land ownership by foreigners and the eligibility to receive 
subsidies. It has also reserved flexibility to regulate the entry and temporary stay of foreign 
nationals, except for certain categories (i.e. business visito rs, independent professionals, and 
intra-corporate transferees), for which it has scheduled a maximum duration of stay.  
4.45.   Samoa has listed three MFN exemptions for audio -visual services, in order to allow for national 
treatment under (existing or future) bi lateral or plurilateral agreements , aimed at promoting cultural 
links.20 
4.4.1   Financial services  
4.46.   Samoa 's financial services sector accounted for 4.5% of GDP in 2017, and employed around 
1,000 people, accounting for some 4% of total employment. Total financial sy stem assets accounted 
for some 130% of GDP in 2017/18. Samoa grants national treatment to the local branches and other 
operations of foreign financial institutions. All financial services subsectors are covered in Samoa 's 
GATS Schedule. The country 's marke t access and national treatment commitments cover mode 3 of 
direct insurance services, insurance intermediation, and services auxiliary to insurance; and modes 
2 and 3 of banking and other financial services.21  
4.47.   As at June 2018, Samoa 's financial system consisted of the following: the banking sector,  
which comprised four commercial banks (two locally incorporated foreign companies, and two local 
companies); the insurance sector, which was made up of one life insurance company, four general 
insuranc e companies, four brokers , and 17 insurance agents; the non-bank financial institutions, 
which included the Samoa National Provident Fund (SNPF), the Samoa Housing Corporation (SHC), 
the Development Bank of Samoa (DBS), the Unit Trust of Samoa (UTOS), and the Public Trust Office 
(PTO); and the foreign exchange industry, which included 12 money transfer operators and/or 
restricted foreign exchange dealers, and one money changer.22  
                                                
19 WTO document, GATS/SC/147, 5 June 2012.  
20 WTO document, GATS/EL/147, 5 June 2012.  
21 WTO documents WT/ACC/SAM/30/Add.2 , and WT/MIN(11)/1/Add.2  of 1 November 2011 . 
22 CBS online information. Viewed at: https://www.cbs.gov.ws/index.php/banking -system/supervison -
and-regulation .  WT/TPR/S/386 /Rev.1  • Samoa  
 
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  4.48.   The financial sector in Samoa is characterized by its small size and  remains l argely 
undiversified in terms of both volume of operations and number of sectoral players. Commercial 
banks account for more than half of financial sector assets; state -owned financial service providers 
account for a significant share of financial assets ( Table 4.5).  
4.49.   The CBS is the main regulator of the financial services sector. Its Financial Supervision and 
Regulation Department administers relevant legislation that regulates the sector. These include: the 
Central Bank of Samoa Act , 2015; the Financial In stitution Act , 1996; the Insurance Act , 2007; and 
the Money Laundering Prevention Act , 2007. The CBS has responsibility for the supervision and 
regulation of domestic commercial banks, securities brokers, securities dealers, insurance 
companies, other fina ncial institutions such as money transfer operators, and any other entities in 
accordance with their relevant laws .  
4.50.   Financial inclusion remains a challenge. Nearly 50% of the adults do not have a bank 
account.23 In addition, SMEs continue to face high credit costs, reflecting, inter alia : limitations 
regarding the use of certain types of assets (such as land) as collateral, lack of adequate financial 
infrastructure, social and cultural factors, and the significance of the subsistence economy. In 2010, 
the C entral Bank Act was amended to place financial inclusion as one of the CBS 's mandates. A 
separate unit under the CBS, the Financial System Development (FSD) Unit, was created in 
November 2012 to manage and implement activities related to financial inclusio n and financial 
literacy. Its current activities consist of promoting financial awareness in the country. In addition, 
the National Financial Inclusion Taskforce (NFIT) is responsible for the implementation of the 
National Financial Inclusion Strategy (NFI S) 2017 -20. Its operational actions consist of promoting 
suitable financial products for the population, developing digital payments, improving financial 
literacy, and proposing reforms for adequate policies and regulations. It also coordinates the actions  
of stakeholders involved in Samoa 's financial inclusions efforts.  
4.51.   The authorities consider that microfinance is an opportunity to improve financial inclusion. 
Currently, the South Pacific Business Development (SPBD) and 13 credit unions are licensed by t he 
MCIL. Microfinance organizations and credit unions hold their licenses under the Credit Union Act , 
2015, which is administered by the MCIL.  
Table 4.5 Financial system structure  
(Percentage of total assets)   
2010/11  
2011/12  
2012/13  
2013/14  
2014/15  
2015/16  
2016/17  
2017/18  
Commercial banks  59.7 58.7 57.9 57.0 57.6 56.7 56.8 56.3 
Australia New Zealand 
Bank (Samoa) Ltd  24.6 23.7 24.9 24.6 26.7 24.5 21.2 17.9 
Bank South Pacific 
(Samoa) Limiteda 14.7 15.8 13.7 11.9 11.8 13.4 15.4 17.6 
National Bank of 
Samoa Limited  8.9 8.6 8.9 7.4 8.9 9.1 10.4 9.9 
Samoa Commercial 
Bank Limited  11.5 10.7 10.5 13.1 10.2 9.7 9.9 10.9 
Non-monetary 
financial institutions  40.3 41.3 42.1 43.0 42.4 43.3 43.2 43.7 
National Provident 
Fund 25.4 26.1 26.9 24.4 23.7 23.8 23.8 24.6 
Development Bank of 
Samoa  8.6 8.8 9.2 9.6 9.4 8.9 8.4 7.7 
General insurance 
companiesb 2.3 2.3 1.4 1.2 1.1 1.7 2.2 2.9 
Samoa Life Assurance 
Corporation  1.9 2.0 2.0 1.7 1.7 1.6 1.7 1.7 
PTO 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.4 0.4 0.4 0.3 0.3 
SHC 1.5 1.6 2.0 2.1 2.0 2.1 2.1 2.0 
UTOSc 0.0 0.0 0.0 3.6 4.1 4.8 4.6 4.6 
Total financial system  100.0  100.0  100.0  100.0  100.0  100.0  100.0  100.0  
                                                
23 Financial Sector Assessment for Samoa Online information . Viewed at: 
https://www.cbs.gov.ws/index.php/banking -system/financial -system -development -.  WT/TPR/S/386 /Rev.1  • Samoa  
 
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2010/11  
2011/12  
2012/13  
2013/14  
2014/15  
2015/16  
2016/17  
2017/18  
Total financial system 
(% of GDP)  102.6  99.2 100.1  117.9  122.7  123.9  130.2  130.6  
Commercial banks  61.2 58.3 58.0 67.2 70.6 70.2 74.0 73.5 
Non-monetary 
financial institutions  41.3 40.9 42.1 50.7 52.1 53.7 56.2 57.1 
Nominal GDP  
(WST million)  1,765.13  1,842.96  1,838.91  1,866.42  1,948.94  2,055.30  2,083.75  2,210.93  
Note:  Fiscal periods end in June.  
a  Bank South Pacific took over Westpac Samoa 's operation s in July 2015.  
b New methodology was adopted in 2015 to extend the coverage to include general insurance companies 
(GICs).  
c The UTOS  began reporting to the CBS in late 2013.  
Source:  CBS. 
4.52.   The offshore segment has been on a declining trend. The total asset s of the offshore banks 
stood at USD 54.4 million in 2014 (USD 112 million in 2005).24  
4.53.   The Samoa International Finance Authority Act , 2005 establishes the Samoa International 
Finance Authority (SIFA) as the sole regulator and supervisor for international (o ffshore) financial 
services. Under the Act, the SIFA is responsible for, inter alia : monitoring and supervising the 
conduct of international financial services provided within Samoa; promoting Samoa as a centre for 
international financial services; making recommendations for the creation and improvement of any 
facilities likely to enhance the attraction of Samoa as a centre for international financial services; 
and making recommendations for the introduction, amendment or replacement of legislation 
pertaini ng to international financial services, companies and other forms of business structures.   
4.54.   An international (offshore) bank must not transact any banking business other than that in 
accordance with its licence and the Act. In addition, it is not allowed to  transact any banking business 
with residents unless it obtains permission to transact domestic banking business, for and in respect 
of residents of Samoa.25  
4.55.   As at June 2016, international financial institutions licensed and registered with the SIFA  
consisted of 10 trustee companies, six international banks, four international fund managers and 
administrators, five private international mutual fund companies, two international insurance 
managers, 15 auditors, and 14 liquidators.26 
4.4.1.1   Banking  
4.56.   Two commerc ial banks that are subsidiaries of foreign banks, ANZ from Australia , and Bank 
South Pacific (BSP) from Papua New Guinea, are the largest banks in Samoa; these subsidiaries held 
31.8% and 31.3% of total banking assets, respectively , in June 2018. Most asse ts consist of lending 
products, which are largely focused on the private sector (over 90% of total claims). Most of the 
lending goes to construction, trade, and professional and business services (Table 4.6).  
  
                                                
24 IMF online information. Viewed at: 
https://www.imf.org/en/Publications/CR/Issues/2016/12/31/Samoa -Financial -Sector -Assessment -Program -
Banking -Resolution -and-Crisis -Prevention -and-43186 .  
25 SIFA online information. Viewed at: https://www.sifa.ws/ index.php/products/international_banks .  
26 SIFA online information. Viewed at: https://www.sifa.ws/images/uploads/AR%202016%20Eng.pdf .   WT/TPR/S/386 /Rev.1  • Samoa  
 
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  Table 4.6 Commercial bank loans to the private sector  
End of period  
2010/11  
2011/12  
2012/13  
2013/14  
2014/15  
2015/16  
2016/17  
 
2017/18  
 
(% of total) 
Agriculture, forestry and 
fisheries  1.3 1.2 1.1 0.8 0.9 0.5 0.9 0.7 
Manufacturing  5.4 6.3 5.1 5.8 4.8 3.8 3.0 3.0 
Building, construction, 
installation and purchase 
of land  42.3 37.9 37.4 37.3 31.5 30.2 29.1 36.8 
Electricity, gas and water  1.5 1.2 2.3 1.4 1.1 0.7 1.0 1.0 
Trade  16.5 14.8 16.1 18.7 19.2 13.3 12.4 12.3 
Transportation, storage 
and communication  6.2 5.7 6.2 5.6 4.9 4.9 6.9 6.2 
Professional and business 
services  15.8 17.1 17.9 19.7 26.9 30.4 20.9 15.4 
Other activitiesa  11.1 15.9 13.8 10.6 10.7 16.2 25.9 24.5 
Total 100.0  100.0  100.0  100.0  100.0  100.0  100.0  100.0  
Total loans to the private 
sector (USD million)  684.29  697.47  705.86  727.68  819.88  933.64  1,017.22  1,010.20  
a Including personal loans not classified elsewhere.  
Source:  CBS. Fiscal periods end  in June.   
4.57.   Commercial banks are well capitalized , and earnings, profitability, and liquidity indicators are 
within historical norms (Table 4.7). Banks ' non-performing loans (NPLs) decreased in recent years; 
they suddenly increased in the last quarter of 2017. Over the coming years, an improving trend is 
expected to continue.27  
Table 4.7 Financial soundness indicators, 2013/14 -December 2017   
2013/14  
2014/15  
2015/16  
2016/17  
Sep 2017  
Dec 2017  
Capital adequacy        
Regulatory capital to risk-weighted assets, ratio 29.7 27.1 24.5 25.1 26.6 26.3 
Regulatory Tier 1 capital to risk-weighted assets, ratio 25.4 22.9 19.9 20.4 20.4 21.6 
NPLs,  net of provisions to capital, ratio 15.1 15.6 9.0 4.5 5.8 8.9 
Capital to assets, ratio 17.1 15.9 14.9 14.6 14.8 14.4 
Asset quality        
NPLs to total gross loans, ratio 8.3 7.1 5.2 4.1 4.5 5.3 
Provisions to NPLs 53.5 50.8 64.4 77.9 72.3 64.7 
Large exposures to capital, ratio 23.9 27.8 98.2 106.4  95.8 95.4 
Earnings and profitability        
  Return on assets, ratioa 1.9 1.8 4.2 4.2 3.8 1.8 
  Return on equity, ratioa 10.5 11.0 25.9 25.9 23.5 10.9 
Liquidity ratios       
  Liquid assets to total assets (Liquid Asset Ratio), ratio 13.1 14.5 8.1 9.7 12.7 10.8 
  Liquid assets to short-term liabilities, ratio 21.1 23.7 23.3 25.5 31.2 25.7 
  Total loans to total domestic deposits  89.0 116.0  106.8  103.9  93.6 91.6 
Sensitivity to market risk       
Net open position in foreign exchange to capital, ratio 7.3 12.8 8.1 28.4 30.2 28.6 
Other indicators        
Assets to total financial system assets, ratio 48.4 44.8 47.3 49.1 31.4 36.7 
Assets to GDP, ratio 65.4 68.9 68.9 70.6 73.8 56.3 
a Change in methodology in 2015/16 . 
Note:  For fiscal year ending in June.  
Source:  CBS; Financial Soundness Indicators database; and IMF staff calculations . 
                                                
27 IMF online information. Viewed at: 
http://www.imf.org/en/Publications/CR/Issues/2018/06/04/Samoa -2018-Article -IV-Consultation -Press -
Release -Staff-Report -Staff-Statement -and-Statement -45934 .   WT/TPR/S/386 /Rev.1  • Samoa  
 
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  4.58.   According to the IMF, the main economic risks facing the banking sector reside in natural 
disasters and the impact of adverse global economic and financial developments  on Australia and 
New Zealand . The interest rate spread continues to shrink but  remains relatively high in the banking 
industry (averaging some 6.5% in 2016 , against 8% in 2010). This may reflect limited competition 
and macroeconomic instability and uncertainty due to natura l disasters.  
4.59.   Under the Financial Institutions Act , 1996, commercial banks must be licensed by the CBS. 
The Act was amended in 2001 to extend the CBS 's oversight responsibility to certain non -bank 
financial institutions, mainly the Samoa National Provident Fund (SNPF), the SHC, the DBS , and the 
UTOS. The minimum amount of paid -up or assigned capital required for the issue of a licence stands 
at WST 1 million for locally -owned and foreign -owned banks , and for other credit institutions.   
4.60.   According to the autho rities, the CBS has set up a two -tier system of minimum capital 
adequacy , requiring banks to maintain an appropriate risk -based capital adequacy ratio; the system 
requires all the banks to maintain , at all times , a minimum capital adequacy ratio of 15% in relation 
to the level of their risk -weighted exposure. As such, tier one capital (core capital ) must be no less 
than 7.5% of total risk -weighted exposure, while tier two capital , or supplemental capital , must not 
exceed 100% of core capital. In addition, in the event of default or identified losses as a result of 
NPLs and other types of impaired assets, the bank must ensure that adequate provisions are 
maintained to cover potential or identified losses.  
4.61.   The authorities indicate that prudential standards, which are the same for foreign and 
domestic banks, are drawn up in line with the Basel Core Principles. (Table 4.8).  
Table 4.8 Supervisory prudential require ments by the CBS , 2018  
 Minimum paid-up capital of WST 2 million  
Maximum shareholding – 20% of total paid-up capital  
1. Minimum capital requirement:   
• Capital adequacy ratio  
• Tier 1 ratio  
• Tier 2 ratio  - 15% of total risk -weighted exposure  
- 7.5% of total risk -weighted exposure not exceeding 
100% of tier 1 ratio  
2. Connected lending  - when credit is extended to individuals and to parties 
which are connected through ownership or control , such 
as a bank director, officer or shareholder (who may have 
authority to exercise power over, say 10%, or even 
more, of the bank 's voting stock), including parent 
companies, subsidiaries and affiliated companies. Such 
lending should be under an arm's-length arrangement. 
Largest single borrower 's limit applies.  
3. Largest single borrower 's limit  - 25% of total capital ( tier 1 + tier 2)  
4. Liquidity requirements:   
• statutory reserve deposits (SRD)  
• supervisory monitoring benchmark  - 4.5% of average total domestic deposit liabilities 
(monthly)  
- 10% of total domestic deposit liabilities  
5. Foreign currency exposure  - Applicable bank internal limits  
6. Asset quality classification  - 90 days arrears is classified as non -performing  
7. Business continuity management  - Financial institution to implement a whole -of-business 
approach to the business continuity plan and the 
management of risks that is appropriate to the size, risk 
and complexity of operations  
Source:  Information provided by the authorities.  
4.62.   In 20 16, Samoa adopted a national strategy (for 2016 -20), and a policy document on 
anti-money laundering, counter terrorist and proliferation financing. The Money Laundering 
Prevention Act , 2007 (MLPA) is the main piece of legislation addressing money laundering issues; 
the Governor of the CBS is the head of the Money Laundering Prevention Authority , appointed under 
the MLPA to implement and regulate the provisions of the Act. The strategy s eeks to enhance the 
quality of information available , to inform Samoa 's anti-money laundering and countering the 
financing of terrorist activities (AML/CTF) efforts; improve the legislation in place to address non -
compliance; and engage the private sector both through liaison and targeted intelligence -driven 
sanction s.  WT/TPR/S/386 /Rev.1  • Samoa  
 
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  4.63.   Under the CBS, the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) is responsible for ensuring that financial 
institutions comply with the AML/CFT regime. The authorities continue to engage in efforts to 
strengthen AML/CFT frameworks , to ensure Samoa 's access to correspondent bank relationships 
(CBRs). As an example, the country has introduced measures to enhance customer due diligence by 
financial institutions, cash transaction reporting, and tougher pena lties for money laundering and 
non-compliance. According to the authorities, the magnitude of derisking has stabilized , in terms of 
number of money transfer operator ( MTO) bank accounts that have been closed since it was first 
reported in 2013. Multilatera l donors and partners are assisting Samoa meet and satisfy AML/CFT 
concerns of commercial banks in the sending countries.  
4.64.   Workers ' remittances from abroad amount to more than 15% of GDP. Commercial banks 
operate about 13 %-23% of all the remittances, and th e rest is operated by non -banks, mainly by 
MTOs. Australia and New Zealand are the main source of remittances. Some 14 MTOs  are officially 
active in the country. Money transfer s are also effected  by some major local operators. The Financial 
Supervision and  Regulation Department of the CBS handles the licensing of MTOs, and the Financial 
Markets Department oversees and monitors exchange control regulations.  
4.65.   The CBS regulates MTOs through a number of laws and regulations, such as: the Financial 
Institutions Act, 1996 ; and the Exchange Control Regulations , 1999, which sets out the licensing 
conditions for MTO s and the regulating of outward remittances.28 MTOs are also classified under the 
MLPA as financial institutions, and are subject to AML/CFT requirements a nd compliance.  
4.66.   The cost of money transfer seems to be significantly high, despite growing competition in the 
industry, and the availability of cost -saving technologies.29 For example, for a cash -to-cash service, 
to send NZD 200, MTOs charge between 4.26% a nd 11.32%; whereas for a similar service, banks 
charge between 18.73% and 21.05%. Digital payment (online account -to-account) services offered 
by commercial banks are cheaper than cash -to-cash. For example, to send NZD 200, the ANZ online 
transfer costs 14 % of the value sent, whereas cash -out service costs 19%. Similarly, KickEx 's Pacific 
product, which uses Digicel 's mobile money product in Samoa , costs 2.5% of the value. However, 
KickEx 's services remain unattractive despite its affordable fees30, due to a lack of familiarity of using 
computer - and mobile -based software by Samoans.   
4.4.1.2   Insurance  
4.67.   The insurance sector is small. As at June 2018, its total assets corresponded to about 2.2% 
of GDP , with premiums at 1.5% of GDP. Only 21% of adults in Samoa have any type of insurance.31 
There are five active licensed insurance companies: four non -life32 and one life insurer. Non -life 
insurance accounts for 76.5% of the total insurance premiums; its prem ium per capita is estimated 
at around WST 130. Fire insurance is the main non -life business segment. Of the four non -life 
companies, only one (the National Pacific Insurance) has an international affiliation.33 
4.68.   Catastrophe hazard, mainly from tropical cyclo nes, is among the main risk s in Samoa 's 
insurance context. Insurers only cover properties compliant with the "cyclone standards " set out in 
the Building Code. Cyclone insurance is available as an extension to property policies, conditional to 
a certificati on of compliance with the prevailing requirements. The average premium rate for cyclone 
extension is 0.20% of the total insured value.  
4.69.   The Insurance Act , 2007 established the Office of Insurance Commissioner , under the 
Financial Supervision and Regulation Department of the CBS, with statutory power for regulating, 
licensing, and supervising the insurance industry. The authorities indicate that efforts to strengthen 
                                                
28 Its main pursued objective is to make sure that the country 's foreign exchange reserves are 
maintained at a sustainable level . 
29 CBS o nline information . Viewed at:  https://www.cbs.gov.ws/index.php/banking -system/financial -
system -development -.  
30 CBS online information. Viewed at: https://www.cbs.gov.ws/index.php/banking -system/financial -
system -development -.  
31 CBS online information. Viewed at: https://www.cbs.gov.ws/index.php/banking -system/supervison -
and-regulation . 
32 National Pacific  Insurance , Federal Pacific Insurance , the Apia Insurance Company , and the 
Progressive Insurance Co.  
33 National Pacific Insurance is 71% -owned by Tower Insurance Limited, a New Zealand –registered 
company . WT/TPR/S/386 /Rev.1  • Samoa  
 
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  the insurance industry are ongoing; these include work by the CBS to improve the reporting sy stem 
in the sector, a plan to adopt prudential guidelines, and the modernization of the Insurance Act. In 
principle, the CBS collects information to ensure that solvency margins are met. It also monitors 
accumulations for all classes , and requests informat ion on reinsurance protection.  
4.70.   Pursuant to the Insurance Act, any person carrying on an insurance business is required to 
be licensed for a specific class of business (life or general insurance). Some commercial banks can 
be licensed as corporate insurance  agents for general insurers, given their role in selling insurance 
products (e.g. household, fire, motor vehicle, etc.) to borrowers as part of their lending 
requirements. General insurers are required to maintain a minimum solvency ratio of no less than 
WST 1 million, or 20% of net premium, or 15% of the outstanding claims provision in the last 
12 months, whichever is the greatest. Life insurers are required to maintain a minimum solvency 
ratio of at least WST 1 million, or 5% of net liabilities up to WST  50 million plus 2.5% of the amount 
that exceeds WST 50 million, whichever is the greatest. As at 2015, the CBS had not undertaken 
any on -site reviews of insurers.  
4.71.   According to the authorities, there is no compulsory insurance in Samoa.  Commercial banks 
may include insurance cover as part of the terms and conditions of their lending agreements. Citizens 
are allowed to purchase insurance overseas.  
4.72.   According to the authorities, insurance premiums are market -determined.  
4.4.2   Communication services  
4.4.2.1   Telecommunicat ions 
4.73.   Samoa 's GATS schedule has no restrictions on modes 1, 2, and 3 of telecommunication 
services. There is no foreign ownership restriction in the applied regime over this sector. The main 
piece of legislation governing the sector is the Telecommunication s Act , 2005.34 Following the 
adoption of the Act, a second mobile services provider (Digicel) entered the market in 2006. Prior 
to that, Telecommunications Samoa Cellular (TSC) was the sole operator.35 The state-owned 
SamoaTel  was privatized in early 2011, as it was sold to Bluesky Communications, which is currently 
the sole fixed -line provider and one of the country 's two mobile services provider s.36  
4.74.   The ICT and e -commerce sector have been identified by the Government as a cri tical enabler 
of economic growth and development in the country.37 The SDS, which sets out Samoa 's national 
social and economic goals, recognizes ICT as an important tool for social development, economic 
growth and political progress. The Government 's Natio nal ICT Policy, issued in July 2012, is intended 
to provide an overarching framework to harmonize and align the national ICT priorities of various 
industry sectors and ministries.38 The Policy, established for the period 2012 -17, aims to: achieve 
accessible  and affordable communications for all; create an enabling environment for the 
development and adoption of ICT s, through policy reform and improvements in legal frameworks; 
strengthen human resources and increase human resource development opportunities th rough ICT s; 
facilitate social and economic improvement; and utilize ICT for good governance. The Policy is 
currently being reviewed , and a new version will cover 2017/18 -2021/22. The Ministry of 
Communications and Information Technology (MCIT) implements S amoa 's vision for 
communications development.  
4.75.   Regulatory functions, such as licensing and frequency management, are the responsibilities 
of the OoTR, an independent institution established in 2006 under the Telecommunications Act. All 
telecommunications p roviders must be licensed. In August 2018, the OoTR adopted new rules on 
                                                
34 OoTR  online information. Viewed at: 
https://www.regulator.gov.ws/images/Act/TELECOMMUNICATIONS_ACT_2005_ -_Eng.pdf .  
35 TSC was bought by Digicel in September 2006.  
36 SamoaTel had the exclusive right to provide fixed telephon y for a period of ten years (1999 to 2009).  
37 UNCTAD online information. Viewed at: 
http://unctad.org/en/PublicationsLi brary/dtlstict2017d10_en.pdf .  
38 MCIT online information. Viewed at: https://www.mcit.gov.ws/images/mcit/NICTPOLICY2012 -
2017.pdf .  WT/TPR/S/386 /Rev.1  • Samoa  
 
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  licensing , which establish individual and class licences.39 Applications for telecommunications 
services licen ces are evaluated according to a set of l egal, financial, and technical cr iteria publicly 
detailed on the Regulator 's website.40 Related fees are set under the Telecommunication License Fee 
Regulations , 2007 (as amended).41 According to the authorities , the current licensing regime is 
technologically neutral.  
4.76.   Interconnection arran gements are governed under Part IV of the Telecommunications Act. It 
requires the Regulator to provide for a transparent, efficient, and cost -oriented interconnection 
framework.  According to the authorities, such a framework is established to ensure the non-
discriminatory treatment of all players. It determines, inter alia , agreement principles; the process 
to be followed by parties; and the procedures for the submission, review and filing of agreements. 
Interconnection rates are negotiated by telecommuni cations service providers and  approved by the 
Regulator.  
4.77.   Under the Telecommunications Act, the Regulator is also responsible for ensuring universal 
access to telecommunications. In accordance with the Act, a Universal Access Policy (UAP) was set 
out in 201 0. The main targets for 2015 were to ensure that 95% of country population ha d access 
to all kinds of telecommunication services, achieving a tele -density of 15% in rural areas (fixed 
and/or mobile), 10% broadband penetration (nation -wide average), and pre ferably one tele -
centre/broadband centre for at least every 3,000 people , in contract areas. According to the 
authorities, no outside funding has been required.  
4.78.   In 2015, the subscribers'  penetration rate stood at 1.1% for fixed lines.42 Since 2014, over 
95% of the population has been covered by mobile networks, while mobile penetration reached 89% 
of the network -covered population. Samoa has two private mobile companies in the market.  
4.79.   Efforts are ongoing to promote e -commerce in Samoa; more than 95% of the p opulation have 
Internet connection (fixed and mobile). The authorities consider that the growth of e -commerce will 
be further facilitated by improved Internet connectivity. Together with the National ICT Policy 
2012-17, various policies and strategies have  been developed to support the authorities ' efforts to 
improve connectivity. These include: the Samoa National Cybersecurity Strategy 2016 –21; the 
Samoa National Broadband Policy 2012; the Internet and Email Policy 2010; and the International 
Telecommunica tion and Gateway Policy 2008.  
4.80.   A number of Internet services providers (ISPs) offer a variety of services , including broadband 
(Table.4.9). Fixed Internet user penetration has reached over 30% , and most users access services 
via mobile broadband. Since 2009 , Samoa is connected to the American Samoa -Hawaii submarine 
cable. The cable connects the country to American Samoa and onwards to Hawaii. Another 
submarine cable system (the Tui -Samoa cable) was launched in February 2018.  
Table 4.9 Telecommunications licensees, October 2018  
Telecommunications licensees  
Fixed licence  
  Bluesky Samoa (then SamoaTel) Limited  
Mobile sicences  
  Digicel (Samoa) Limited  
  Bluesky Samoa Limited  
Retail Internet service provision licences  
  Computer Services Limited  
  Lesa's Telephone Services Limited  
  Bluesky Samoa (then SamoaTel) Limited  
  Digicel Samoa Limited  
                                                
39 OoTR online information. Viewed at: 
https://www.regulator.gov.ws/images/Telecommunications_Licensing_Rule/Telecommunications -Licensing -
Rules.pdf .  
40 OoTR  online information. View ed at: 
https://regulator.gov.ws/images/Number_request_forms/Criterion -for-Evaluation -of-Applications -for-Services -
Licenc es.pdf .  
41 OoTR online information. Viewed at: 
https://regulator.gov.ws/images/Regulations/Telecommunications -License -Fee-Regulation -2007.pdf .  
42 ITU online information. Viewed at: 
https://www.itu.int/en/ITUD/Statistics/Documents/publications/ldb/LDB_ICT_2017.pdf .  WT/TPR/S/386 /Rev.1  • Samoa  
 
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  Telecommunications licensees  
  NetVo Samoa Limited  
Wholesale Internet service provision  
  Samoa Submarine Cable Company (Tui -Samoa)  
International gateway licences  
  Digicel Samoa Limited  
  Bluesky Samoa (then SamoaTel) Limited  
  WiMax Samoa (CSL) Limited  
  Samoa Submarine Cable Company (Tui -Samoa)  
Submarine cable landing station licence  
  Samoa American Samoa (SAS) Cable Limited  
  Samoa Submarine Cable Company (Tui -Samoa)  
Source:  Information provided by the authorities.  
4.4.2.2   Postal and courier services  
4.81.   Samoa has made no GATS commitments on postal services. The Postal Services Act , 2010 
regulates the provision of postal services. It provides the definition of universal postal services, and 
commercial services , which includes courier services; it also provides details on Samoa Post  Limited 's 
(SPL) operations, the Regulat or's power over operations, and offences. SPL, a public trading body 
for the purposes of the Public Bodies (Performance and Accountability) Act , 2001, provides postal 
and related services in 35 sub -post offices across the country.43 It has a universal servi ce obligation 
(providing services even though they are not commercially viable); the minister in charge of 
communications determines the pricing policy for universal postal services, following a consultation 
with the SPL. The SPL was granted exclusive rights and privileges on reserved postal services, i.e. 
the collection, transport and delivery of domestic and cross -border addressed mail to PO boxes in 
the following categories: addressed letters weighing not more than 100 g, small packages wei ghing 
up to 2 kg; the collection, transport and delivery to PO boxes of domestic and international postal 
parcels weighing up to 20 kg; the provision of PO boxes; and the issuing of postage stamps. Postal 
services , in general , are neither restricted nor re served under the Foreign Investment Act , 2000.  
4.82.   The commercial postal services market , on the other hand , is served by various competitors.  
The SPL may provide commercial postal services in accordance with the Public Bodies (Performance 
and Accountability) Act, 2001, and such services have market -based tariffs. By law , it must ensure 
that there is no cross -subsidization between reserved postal services and commercial postal 
services.  
4.4.3   Transport  
4.4.3.1   Overview  
4.83.   Transport, including air, sea, and land transport, acco unted for about 5% of GDP in 2015/16. 
Given its size and remoteness from major international markets, Samoa 's airports, road networks, 
and ports are essential to its economic and social development. The authorities overseeing the sector 
include: the Minist ry of Works, Transport, and Infrastructure (MWTI); the Land Transport Authority 
(LTA); the Samoa Port Authority (SPA); the Samoa Shipping Company (SSC) ; and the Samoa Airport 
Authority (SAA). Administrative issues, such as corporate plans and budget , are u nder the Ministry 
for Public Enterprises ( MPE), while technical issues are under the responsibility of the MWTI.  
4.84.   The objective of the Government in the transport sector is to provide a sustainable, safe, 
secure, and environmentally responsible transport n etwork that supports Samoa 's economic and 
social development. The SDS provides the overarching strategic goals for the sector. Its main 
priorities are translated into various sectoral plans. The National Infrastructure Strategic Plan 
outlines the Governmen t's priorities and strategic directions for investments in economic 
infrastructure. The Transport Sector Plan 2013 -18 (currently under review for the development of a 
new Plan) succeeded the 2008 -11 version and  sets out a strategic and policy framework for  achieving 
the Government 's aims in the sector.  
                                                
43 Ministry for Public Enterprises (MPE) online information. Viewed at: 
http://www.mpe. gov.ws/links/public -bodies/trading/samoa -post-limited .  WT/TPR/S/386 /Rev.1  • Samoa  
 
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  4.4.3.2   Maritime transport  
4.85.   Maritime transport is regulated by the Shipping Act , 1998 and its Regulations. The Maritime 
Division of the MWTI is responsible for ensuring, inter alia , the safety and security of maritim e 
transport; environmental compliance of shipping activities; and Samoa 's compliance with various 
international maritime conventions, protocols and codes. A vessel that is owned by a qualified 
person , and having a length of 15 met res or more , must be regis tered in accordance with the Act.  
4.86.   Under the Samoa Ports Authority Act , 1998, the Samoa Ports Authority (SPA), a n SOE, 
currently operates five commercial ports, with Apia Port being the main port of entry for international 
trade and sea travel, and the only port with container handling facilities.44 Commercial functions 
within the Port are open to private contractors. The services provided by private companies include 
stevedoring, container handling, and major maintenance. They are regulated by the SPA. P ort cargo 
storage spaces may be leased by the SPA to private operators, who provide their own cargo handling 
equipment. In accordance with the Act, the SPA licen ses and regulates commercial service providers 
in ports in Samoa.  
4.87.   Export container movements a re not significant through Apia, due to weak merchandise 
exports. This situation results in a substantial empty back loading expense for shipping lines. The 
number of containers handled at Samoa 's ports was up from 23,137 in 2013 to 27,719 in 2016, 
while t he number of incoming vessels grew from 381 to 472 during the same period.45 
4.88.   According to a study undertaken by the SPA in 2013, some 95% of full import containers 
return empty from Apia and  have aggravated the shipping lines ' in-bound container freight cha rges. 
Current container services to Apia are operated from: North and East Asia, every 20 days; 
New Zealand (Consortium Lines), twice a month; New Zealand (Independent Line), monthly; the US 
West Coast, every 15 days; and the United States and China (opera ted by the Pacific Forum Line), 
every month.  
4.89.   Various maritime transport operators are in activity in Samoa. The Samoa Shipping 
Corporation (SSC) was set up by the Government to operate inter -island shipping services , which 
carry passengers and cargo betwe en Upolu and Savai 'i, and between Samoa and nearby countries. 
The Corporation provides scheduled and chartered passenger and cargo services from Samoa to 
destinations in the South Pacific region. The SSC's current business includes freight forwarding and 
a courier service between Upolu and Savai 'i, as well as between Samoa and American Samoa. The 
SSC has four vessels. It has no direct competition. This may be explained by the small scale of its 
services scope.  
4.90.   Other maritime transport operators include the  Samoa Shipping Services (SSS) , which 
provides management and crewing services for some container vessels; and the Pacific Forum Line 
(PFL), a joint venture between the Government of Samoa and the Neptune Pacific Line (NPL) .  
4.91.   The Marine Pollution Preventio n Act , 2008 provides for the prevention of pollution to the 
marine environment , responses to marine pollution incidents emanating from vessels, and other 
matters related to the implementation of international marine pollution conventions. It gives effect 
to the collection of marine pollution levies on vessels operating in Samoa.  
4.92.   Samoa is a member of the International Maritime Organization.   
4.4.3.3   Air transport  
4.93.   Aviation plays a vital economic and social role in Samoa 's development. Reflecting its 
geographical con ditions, most visitors, including tourists, rely predominantly on air transport for 
domestic and international travel. Air connectivity is also essential in meeting Samoa 's effective 
regional integration with its Pacific neighbours. Efficient air services are necessary to reduce costs 
associated with its geographic al distance from main markets , and to increase exports of products 
with low volume and high value that depend on fast delivery. In 2014, the World Bank approved a 
                                                
44 ILO online information. Viewed at: 
https://www.ilo.org/dyn/natlex/docs/ELECTRONIC/102758/12433 4/F-1428545790/WSM102758.pdf .  
45 MPE online information. Viewed at: http://www.mpe.gov.ws/links/public -bodies/trading/samoa -ports-
authority .  WT/TPR/S/386 /Rev.1  • Samoa  
 
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  USD 25 million grant to the Gover nment , to improve  the operational safety and oversight of 
international air transport and the associated infrastructure, under the Aviation Investment Project. 
The ongoing Project seeks to implement a series of international airport infrastructure investme nts; 
strengthen policy and regulatory capacity and training; and further improve airport operations and 
management capacity.46 
4.94.   Samoa recorded an increasing trend in the transport of passengers and freight during the 
review period. While total passenger movement steadily grew from 277,990 travellers in 2013 to 
319,642 in 2016, aircraft movements were volatile between 2013 (4 ,375), 2014  (3,790), and 2016 
(4,078).47 
4.95.   Under its GATS commitments, Samoa  fully bound market access and national treatment with 
respect to the selling and marketing of air transport services, computer reservation system services, 
and aircraft repair and maintenance services.48  
4.96.   The primary legislation governing civil aviation in Samoa is the Civil Aviation Act , 1998, and 
its Re gulations. The Act designates the MWTI as the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). It has 
responsibility for the oversight of aviation stakeholders ' compliance with Samoa 's civil aviation 
legislation and the International Civil Aviation Organization ( ICAO) Standards and Recommended 
Practices (SARPs).  
4.97.   The Civil Aviation Division of the MWTI administers the Act , to approve, monitor and , if 
necessary , remove members of the aviation industry, mainly for the purpose of maintaining safety. 
It is responsible for granti ng licences for international and domestic scheduled and non -scheduled 
air service operations into and within Samoa. In addition, the Division is responsible for, inter alia,  
providing advice to the Secretary for Transport in the development and negotiatio n of air transport 
policies and air services agreements suitable for Samoa 's developmental needs; and approvals for 
international non -schedule d flights requesting landing approval at Samoan airports.  
4.98.   Under the Samoa Airport Authority Act , 2012, the Samoa A irport Authority (SAA), a n SOE, is 
in charge of managing and operating Samoa 's airports. There is no restriction on private sector 
participation regarding operating airports. The SAA currently manages three airports: Faleolo 
International Airport; Maota Ai rport; and Asau Airport. Under the Civil Aviation Regulations, the SAA 
operates air traffic services, aeronautical telecommunications, and aviation security. Petroleum 
Products Supplies Ltd., a local company, is authorized by the MWTI to supply aviation fu el to aircrafts 
in Samoa. Faleolo Airport and Fagali 'i Airport are the two international airports in Samoa;  both are 
located on Upolu . The country also has three  smaller national airports: Asau Airport, Lalomalava 
Airport, and Maota  Airport in Savai 'i. The international network is served by Talofa Airways, and 
Samoa Airways (two national airlines); Air New Zealand; Fiji Airways; Real Tonga Airways; and 
Virgin Australia International.  
4.99.   In general, apart from technical requirements, the conditions for allocating air traffic rights to 
a company include the existence of a multilateral or bilateral agreement , and the designation of the 
company in question by the civil aviation authority of the country of origin. Samoa  has signed several 
bilateral agreements with ICAO member States, including Australia, and China. Cabotage rights are 
not provided in any of the agreements.  
4.100.   Samoa is a signatory to the Pacific Islands Air Service Agreement (PIASA).49 The Agreement 
provides for t he establishment of a full single aviation market, whereby the designated airlines of all 
Parties to the Agreement may operate: scheduled 3rd, 4th, 5th and 6th freedom services between all 
Parties to the Agreement; and to the extent that bilateral arrangem ents with States that are not a 
Party to the Agreement allow, scheduled beyond (5th freedom) services to and from those States. 
According to the authorities, the full single aviation market is operational; it is currently used by 
Real Tonga and Talofa Airw ays. 
                                                
46 World Bank online inform ation. Viewed at: http://projects.worldbank.org/P143408/samoa -aviation -
investment -project?lang=en .  
47 MPE online information. Viewed at: http://www.mpe.gov.ws/links/public -bodies/trading/samoa -
airport -authority .  
48 WTO document GATS/SC/147, 5 June 2012.  
49 The PIASA was signed by ten countries: Cook Islands, Kiribati, Nauru, Niue, Papua New Guinea, 
Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu, and Vanuatu .   WT/TPR/S/386 /Rev.1  • Samoa  
 
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  4.101.   Since July 2002 , Samoa has been a member of the Multilateral Agreement on the 
Liberalization of International Air Transportation (MALIAT), whose membership include s Brunei 
Darussalam, Chile, Mongolia, New Zealand, Singapore, Tonga, and the United Stat es. The key 
features of the Agreement include: an open route schedule; an open traffic rights including 7th 
freedom cargo services, a multiple airline designation, and third -country code -sharing. The MALIAT 
has provisions on airport slot allocation.  Accord ing to the authorities, Samoa submitted its 
instrument of withdrawal from the MALIAT on 9 March 2018 ; this will be effective 12 months after 
submission , on 9 March 2019 . 
4.102.   Samoa is a member of several international civil aviation conventions, mainly: the ICAO, 
since 1996, the Chicago Convention on International Civil Aviation , since 1996; the Warsaw 
Convention for the Unification of Certain Rules relating to International Carriage by Air, since 1963; 
the Tokyo Convention on Offences and Certain Other Acts Committed on Board Aircraft, since 1998; 
and The Hague  Convention for the Suppression of Unlawful Seizure of Aircraft.    
4.4.4   Tourism  
4.103.   Tourism expenditure was estimated to be worth WST 425 million in 2017.50 The total number 
of tourists to Samoa peaked at 15 7,515 in 2017. However, there was a decline in arrivals in 2013 
to 124,673 (Table 4.10). New Zealand and Australia are the main countr ies of origin of tourists, for 
a range of purposes, mainly holiday s, family visit s, and sports (Table 4.11)  
Table 4.10 Arrivals,  by purpose of visit, 2011 -17 
Year Holiday  VFRa Business  Other  Sports  Total  
2011 44,049  56,157  11,392  14,270  1,735  127,603  
2012 53,091  52,590  14,162  13,054  1,790  134,687  
2013 45,321  44,897  11,677  20,402  2,376  124,673  
2014 46,302  45,681  13,382  13,960  1,027  131,719  
2015 52,136  44,564  11,665  16,815  2,468  139,043  
2016 57,213  48,673  12,195  14,493  1,531  145,769  
2017 63,694  50,775  14,340  15,252  2,260  157,515  
a Visiting friends and relatives . 
Source:  Samoa Bureau of Statistics . 
Table 4.11 Arrivals , by purpose of visit and source market, 2013  
(Percentage s) 
Purpose of visit by place of residence  Holiday  VFRa Business  Sports  Other  Total  
American Samoa  11.9 17.3 11.3 18.1 34.8 17.4 
Australia  24.8 24.3 21.3 25.2 8.9 21.8 
New Zealand  44.0 47.5 35.9 24.8 22.3 41.0 
Other Pacific  2.0 2.8 13.9 22.7 12.6 5.4 
North America  7.7 6.2 7.8 5.3 7.5 7.1 
Europe  6.6 0.7 2.5 2.2 1.7 3.1 
Rest of world 3.1 1.1 7.3 1.7 12.2 4.1 
a Visiting friends and relatives . 
Source:  Samoa Tourism Sector Plan 2014 -19. 
4.104.   Tourism accounts for about 20% of GDP, and the sector is the single largest commercial 
earner of foreign reserve s.  
4.105.   The sector is highlighted as one of the priority sectors in the SDS, which translates into the 
Samoa Tourism Development Plan (STDP). The first generation of the STDP covered the period 
2009-13. It was reviewed in 2013 , and extended , with the STDP 2014 -19.  
4.106.   The Tourism Development Act , 2012 is the main piece of legislation regulating tourism and 
related activities. It provides for sustainable development, and the promotion and management of 
the tourism sector. The legislation applies no discriminatory measures or limitations on investors or 
                                                
50 Samoa has a range of tourist  attractions which are primarily based on its unique environmental 
features and cultural products. The popular attractions include: the Lalomanu and  Saleapaga Beach, the To 
Sua Trench, the Piula Cave Pool, the Papase 'ea Sliding Rocks, Robert Louis Stevenson 's Grave, the Saleaula 
Lava Fields, Swimming with Turtles Satoalepai, the Robert Lo uis Stevenson Museum, and Togitogiga Falls.  WT/TPR/S/386 /Rev.1  • Samoa  
 
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  service providers, domestic or foreign, in the sector. Commercial presence of foreign hotels and 
restaurant operators is possi ble through incorporation. According to the authorities, there are no 
restrictions on foreign investment in tourism projects. However, the Cabinet has approved a 
submission to reserve beach fales (traditional Samoan thatched open beach house s) and budget 
accommodations for Samoan citizens. The submission is yet to be included in the Reserved List 
under the Foreign Investment Act , 2000.  
4.107.   The Samoa Tourism Authority (STA) is the lead agency for policy, planning, destination 
marketing, visitor information, mark et research and sector coordination. It is a semi -autonomous 
agency, which is funded by Government; it reports to an independent board and , in turn, to the 
Minister of Tourism. It administers the licensing regime for the sector. Applications are received b y 
the Commissioner of Revenue , as per the Business Licences Act , 1998. The STA reviews applications, 
determines appropriate classifications for any tourism business which applies for a business licence; 
and licences are issued by the Ministry for Revenue. Any foreigner who wishes to invest in tourism 
activities , such as travel agents, tour guides, hotels and accommodation , is subject to apply for a 
Foreign Investment Certificate before obtaining a business licence,  and must satisfy hotel standards 
required by the STA.  
4.108.   The Tourism Sector Committee (TSSC) has oversight for sector policy and  is chaired by the 
Minister of Tourism. It is a public –private collaboration framework , established in 2011. It consists 
of a mix of public (the STA and various ministries)  and private sector organizations that are involved 
in the management and development of the sector. The MCIL plays a key role in managing incentive 
schemes aimed at strengthening individual business es and assisting with tourism product 
development ( Sectio n 3.3.1).  
4.109.   Private sector tourism organizations include: the Samoa Hotel Association, whose main role 
includes advocating for its members and others on government policy, regulations, standards, 
development proposals, legislation and sector issues, and iden tifying workplace training needs; and 
the Samoa Savai 'i Tourism Association, which aims to facilitate workplace training for its members 
and influence improvements to visitor information, customer service s, and access to Savai 'i. 
4.110.   The main incentive scheme available regarding investment in tourism consists of duty 
exemption for imported materials required , for a list of items under the DCS ( Section  3.3.1).  A tax 
credit scheme for the tourism sector was in place until June 2018. Unde r the scheme , a person who 
invest ed at least WST  100,000 in an approved tourism development project was granted a tax credit 
equal to the amount of the investment.  
 WT/TPR/S/386 /Rev.1  • Samoa  
 
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  5  APPENDIX TABLES  
Table A1. 1 Merchandise exports by destination, 2012 -17 
 
2012  2013  2014  2015  2016  2017  
Total exports (USD million)  76.1  62.1   50.9   58.9   56.0   44.4  
(% of total exports)  
Americas  3.3 2.9 5.3 5.5 6.7 6.8 
 United States  2.9 2.9 3.8 5.3 6.7 5.7 
 Other America  0.4 0.0 1.5 0.2 0.0 1.1 
    Cayman Islands  0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.8 
    Saint Kitts and Nevis  0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.3 
Europe  0.3 1.2 0.7 0.6 0.7 0.6 
 EU-28 0.3 1.2 0.6 0.5 0.7 0.6 
    United Kingdom  0.1 0.9 0.2 0.1 0.1 0.3 
    Germany  0.1 0.3 0.4 0.3 0.5 0.2 
Middle East  0.0 0.0 0.0 0.1 0.1 0.6 
    United Arab Emirates  0.0 0.0 0.0 0.1 0.1 0.6 
Asia 82.3 95.9 93.9 93.7 92.6 92.0 
 China  0.0 0.2 0.0 1.4 1.4 1.1 
 Japan  1.2 0.5 0.3 3.8 2.9 3.6 
 Other Asia  81.0 95.2 93.6 88.5 88.2 87.3 
    American Samoa  6.1 9.1 6.3 18.3 25.8 26.6 
    Australia  53.9 56.9 57.9 42.1 35.9 21.4 
    New Zealand  11.2 13.7 19.1 15.0 12.0 19.7 
    Tokelau  2.6 7.2 2.7 2.8 2.9 8.2 
    Chinese Taipei  0.9 0.4 0.4 4.2 5.3 5.4 
    Fiji 0.7 2.4 3.0 2.9 3.2 4.0 
    Singapore  0.6 2.0 3.5 1.6 1.1 0.9 
    Malaysia  1.4 1.4 0.2 0.2 1.4 0.4 
    Cook Islands  0.0 0.3 0.1 0.3 0.3 0.3 
    Indonesia  0.2 0.2 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.1 
    Korea, Republic of  0.0 0.0 0.1 0.0 0.0 0.1 
    Hong Kong, China  0.0 0.0 0.0 0.8 0.0 0.1 
    Tonga  0.0 0.1 0.1 0.0 0.1 0.1 
    New Caledonia  0.1 0.1 0.0 0.0 0.2 0.1 
Other  14.2 0.0 0.1 0.0 0.0 0.0 
Source:   WTO Secretariat calculations , based on UNSD Comtrade database ; and data provided by the authorities.  
  WT/TPR/S/386 /Rev.1  • Samoa  
 
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  Table A1. 2 Merchandise imports by origin, 2012 -17 
  2012  2013  2014  2015  2016  2017  
Total imports (USD million)  345.5  366.6  388.0  370.6  349.8  356.2   
(% of total imports)  
Americas  13.1 12.5 10.6 10.3 11.0 11.5 
 United States  12.5 12.4 10.5 10.1 10.6 11.1 
 Other America  0.5 0.1 0.1 0.3 0.4 0.3 
   Brazil  0.2 0.1 0.0 0.1 0.1 0.3 
Europe  2.1 0.4 1.4 0.8 1.8 3.2 
 EU-28 2.0 0.4 1.4 0.7 1.5 2.8 
   United Kingdom  1.1 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.3 1.1 
   France  0.0 0.0 0.6 0.1 0.0 0.6 
   Italy 0.1 0.0 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.3 
   Germany  0.1 0.0 0.1 0.2 0.6 0.3 
   Sweden  0.2 0.2 0.3 0.1 0.1 0.3 
 Other Europe  0.1 0.0 0.0 0.1 0.3 0.4 
   Turkey  0.1 0.0 0.0 0.1 0.3 0.4 
Africa  0.4 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 
Asia 84.4 87.0 87.9 88.8 87.1 85.3 
 China  9.9 8.1 12.6 14.8 14.1 9.1 
 Japan  4.7 3.7 3.9 5.2 5.2 4.3 
 Other Asia  69.9 75.2 71.3 68.8 67.8 72.0 
   New Zealand  24.2 29.9 25.0 26.0 23.9 26.4 
   Singapore  23.2 22.8 24.8 15.5 14.6 16.6 
   Australia  8.1 7.2 7.9 9.8 10.3 10.5 
   Fiji 5.2 5.7 4.5 6.2 6.5 5.8 
   Hong Kong, China  1.0 1.7 1.0 1.0 1.9 3.7 
   Thailand  1.9 2.3 2.5 2.8 3.3 2.4 
   Korea, Republic of  0.3 0.3 0.3 0.2 0.2 1.9 
   Viet Nam  0.5 0.2 0.4 1.1 1.0 1.3 
   Indonesia  2.9 1.6 1.8 2.0 1.7 1.2 
   Malaysia  1.3 1.6 1.4 2.9 2.4 0.8 
   Korea, Democratic People 's Republic of  0.2 0.2 0.3 0.2 0.5 0.4 
   India 0.3 0.4 0.4 0.3 0.4 0.3 
   American Samoa  0.1 0.2 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.2 
Source:   WTO Secretariat calculations , based on UNSD Comtrade database ; and data provided by the 
authorities. 
  WT/TPR/S/386/Rev.1 • Samoa  
 
- 76 - Table A1. 3 Merchandise exports , by group of products, 2012 -17 
  2012  2013  2014  2015  2016  2017  
Total exports (USD million)   76.1   62.1   50.9   58.9   56.0   44.4   
(% of total exports)  
Total primary products  47.2 49.6 23.6 69.5 69.9 86.9 
 Agriculture  23.6 24.5 22.8 43.6 47.9 56.3 
Food 23.5 24.2 22.7 43.4 47.7 56.0 
0342 - Fish, frozen (excluding fillets and minced fish)  4.7 6.8 3.5 19.7 28.7 27.7 
0548 - Vegetable products, roots and tubers, chiefly for human food, n.e.s., fresh or dried  0.5 1.0 2.1 3.9 4.4 9.5 
1123 - Beer made from malt (including ale, stout and porter)  3.4 7.9 5.0 4.3 2.6 4.3 
0599 - Juice of any single fruit (other than citrus) or vegetable, mixtures of fruit or vegetable juices  0.4 2.0 2.8 5.1 5.7 3.8 
4223 - Coconut (copra) oil and its fractions  4.5 1.0 2.9 2.0 1.6 1.9 
0577 - Edible nuts (excluding nuts chiefly used for the extraction of oil), fresh or dried, whether or not 
shelled or peeled  0.9 1.4 1.5 0.6 0.5 1.6 
0341 - Fish, fresh ( alive or dead) or chilled (excluding fillets and minced fish)  5.3 0.3 1.2 2.3 0.4 1.3 
   0813 - Oilcake and other solid residues (except dregs), whether or not ground or in the form of pellets, 
resulting from the extraction of fats or oils from oil -seeds, oleaginous fruits and germs of cereals  0.0 0.1 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.8 
0345 - Fish fillets, fresh or chilled, and other fish meat (whether or not minced), fresh, chilled or frozen  0.0 0.0 0.2 0.7 1.2 0.6 
0176 - Meat and offal (other than liver), of bovine animals, prepared or preserved, n.e.s.  0.0 0.1 0.1 0.0 0.1 0.5 
0721 - Cocoa beans, whole or broken, raw or roasted  0.0 0.0 0.0 0.3 0.0 0.5 
0484 - Bread, pastry, cakes, biscuits and other bakers ' wares, whether or not containing cocoa in any 
proportion, communion wafers, empty cachets of a kind suitable for pharmaceutical use, sea ling wafers, 
rice-paper and similar products  0.2 0.2 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.4 
1222 - Cigarettes containing tobacco  2.2 0.8 0.4 0.4 0.4 0.4 
0989 - Food preparations, n.e.s.  0.0 0.1 0.0 0.2 0.0 0.4 
 Agricultural raw material  0.1 0.3 0.1 0.2 0.2 0.3 
Mining  23.6 25.1 0.9 25.9 22.1 30.6 
 Ores and other minerals  0.4 0.8 0.8 0.6 0.5 1.5 
2892 - Waste and scrap of precious metal s (other than gold) or of metals clad with precious metal s (other 
than gold)  0.0 0.0 0.0 0.5 0.3 0.6 
2823 - Other ferrous waste and scrap  0.2 0.2 0.3 0.1 0.1 0.4 
 Non-ferrous metals  0.0 0.0 0.1 0.0 0.0 0.0 
 Fuels 23.2 24.4 0.0 25.3 21.5 29.1 
334 - Petroleum oils and oils obtained from bituminous minerals, other than crude  23.2 24.2 0.0 25.3 21.5 28.9 
Manufactures  50.1 48.8 42.7 30.5 30.0 12.1 
 Iron and steel  0.0 0.0 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.1 
 Chemicals  0.2 0.6 0.1 0.2 0.2 0.6 
 Other semi -manufactures  0.8 0.9 0.1 0.4 0.5 1.0 
 Machinery and transport equipment  48.5 45.9 40.9 28.6 28.3 8.4 
Power -generating machines  0.0 0.0 0.2 0.0 0.7 0.0 
Other non -electrical machinery  0.1 0.3 0.4 0.3 0.2 0.3 
Office machines and telecommunication equipment  0.1 0.1 0.4 0.2 0.1 0.1 
Other electrical machines  47.9 44.8 38.2 27.8 27.0 7.8 
7731 - Insulated (including enamelled or anodized) wire, cable (including co -axial cable) and other insulated 
electric conductors, whether or not fitted with connectors, optical fibre cables made up of individually 
sheathed fibres  47.0 44.8 38.0 27.6 23.8 7.2 
7732 - Electrical insulating equipment  0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.5 
 Automotive products  0.1 0.5 0.1 0.2 0.2 0.1  
  WT/TPR/S/386/Rev.1 • Samoa  
 
- 77 -   2012  2013  2014  2015  2016  2017  
 Other transport equipment  0.2 0.2 1.6 0.1 0.1 0.1 
Textiles  0.0 0.1 0.1 0.0 0.0 0.1 
Clothing  0.1 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.3 
Other consumer goods  0.5 1.1 1.3 1.0 0.8 1.5 
8939 - Articles of plastics, n.e.s.  0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.1 0.6 
Other  2.6 1.6 33.7 0.1 0.1 1.0 
Source:   WTO Secretariat calculations , based on UNSD Comtrade database (SITC Rev.3).  
   
  WT/TPR/S/386/Rev.1 • Samoa  
 
- 78 - Table A1. 4 Merchandise imports , by group of products, 2012 -17 
  2012  2013  2014  2015  2016  2017  
Total imports (USD million)  345.5  366.6  388.0  370.6  349.8  356.2   
(% of total imports)  
Total primary products  51.7 52.9 51.5 44.3 44.5 46.8 
 Agriculture  28.2 30.0 26.8 28.8 30.4 30.3 
Food 25.7 27.3 24.3 26.9 28.2 27.8 
0123 - Meat and edible offal of poultry of subgroup 001.4, fresh, chilled or frozen  5.8 5.4 5.1 4.6 5.2 5.4 
0484 - Bread, pastry, cakes, biscuits and other bakers ' wares, whether or not containing cocoa in any 
proportion, communion wafers, empty cachets of a kind suitable for pharmaceutical use, sealing 
wafers, rice -paper and similar products  1.2 1.3 1.1 1.4 1.5 1.5 
0611 - Sugars, beet or cane, raw, in solid  form, not containing added flavouring or colouring matter  1.0 1.5 1.2 1.0 1.4 1.5 
0371 - Fish, prepared or preserved, n.e.s., caviar and caviar substitutes prepared from fish eggs  1.7 1.7 1.5 1.7 1.3 1.4 
0121 - Meat of sheep or goats, fresh, chilled or frozen  1.2 1.1 0.8 1.0 1.1 1.2 
0461 - Flour of wheat or of meslin  1.5 1.4 1.2 1.3 0.0 1.2 
0483 - Macaroni, spaghetti and similar products (pasta), uncooked, not stuffed or otherwise prepared  1.1 1.2 1.1 1.3 1.2 1.1 
0221 - Milk (including skimmed milk) and cream, not concentrated or sweetened  0.9 1.2 1.1 1.2 1.2 1.1 
0423 - Rice, semi -milled or wholly milled, whether or not  polished, glazed, parboiled or converted 
(including broken rice)  1.5 1.6 1.0 1.4 0.0 1.1 
Agricultural raw material s 2.5 2.7 2.5 2.0 2.1 2.5 
2482 - Wood of coniferous species, sawn or chipped lengthwise, sliced or peeled, whether or not 
planed, sanded or finger -jointed, of a thickness exceeding 6 mm  1.0 1.5 1.5 1.1 1.3 1.7 
 Mining  23.4 22.9 24.7 15.4 14.1 16.5 
Ores and other minerals  0.5 0.7 0.3 0.3 0.3 0.2 
Non-ferrous metals  0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.4 
Fuels 22.7 22.0 24.2 14.8 13.6 15.9 
334 - Petroleum oils and oils obtained from bituminous minerals, other than crude  22.1 21.4 23.3 14.1 12.9 15.2 
Manufactures  45.6 46.1 48.2 55.7 55.5 53.2 
 Iron and steel  2.3 3.3 2.3 2.4 2.2 3.7 
 Chemicals  5.7 5.8 6.8 8.1 7.5 6.9 
5429 - Medicaments, n.e.s.  0.7 0.7 1.1 1.3 1.0 1.0 
5542 - Organic surface -active agents (other than soap), surface -active preparations, washing 
preparations (including auxiliary washing preparations) and cleaning preparations, whether or not 
containing soap, n.e.s.  0.8 0.6 0.7 0.8 0.8 0.8 
 Other semi -manufactures  11.6 11.4 11.7 14.6 13.4 12.1 
6612 - Portland cement, aluminous cement, slag cement, supersulphate cement and similar hydraulic 
cements, whether or not coloured or in the form of clinkers  1.4 1.6 1.5 1.9 1.7 1.6 
6429 - Articles of paper pulp, paper, paperboard or cellulose wadding, n.e.s.  0.6 1.0 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.1 
6911 - Structures (excluding prefabricated buildings of group 811) and parts of structures (e.g., 
bridges and bridge sections, lock -gates, towers, lattice masts, roofs, roofing frameworks, doors and 
windows and their frames and thresholds for doors, and shutters  1.0 0.4 0.7 0.5 1.0 1.0 
 Machinery and transport equipment  16.8 15.9 16.8 18.4 21.2 19.9 
Power -generating machines  0.9 0.7 0.8 0.6 0.4 0.8 
Other non -electrical machinery  3.9 4.3 3.4 4.1 4.1 3.9 
Agricultural machinery and tractors  0.1 0.1 0.0 0.1 0.1 0.2 
Office machines and telecommunication equipment  2.8 2.8 3.7 3.7 4.6 3.4 
Other electrical machines  4.9 3.5 3.1 3.5 4.4 4.5  
  WT/TPR/S/386/Rev.1 • Samoa  
 
- 79 -   2012  2013  2014  2015  2016  2017  
7731 - Insulated (including enamelled or anodized) wire, cable (including co -axial cable) and other 
insulated electric conductors, whether or not fitted with connectors, optical fibre cables made up of 
individually sheathed fibres  1.6 0.5 0.4 0.6 0.8 1.0 
 Automotive products  3.6 4.0 5.2 4.9 7.0 6.4 
7812 - Motor vehicles for the transport of persons, n.e.s.  1.3 1.7 2.1 2.2 3.0 2.8 
7821 - Motor vehicles for the transport of goods  1.4 1.5 1.4 1.7 2.5 2.1 
 Other transport equipment  0.7 0.6 0.5 1.6 0.8 0.9 
Textiles  1.1 1.1 1.2 1.4 1.3 1.2 
Clothing  0.7 0.8 1.0 1.2 1.1 1.3 
Other consumer goods  7.4 7.6 8.4 9.7 8.8 8.2 
8928 - Printed matter, n.e.s.  1.0 0.3 0.2 0.2 0.2 1.6 
Other  2.7 1.0 0.3 0.0 0.0 0.0 
Source:  WTO Secretariat calculations , based on UNSD Comtrade database (SITC Rev.3).  
 WT/TPR/S/386 /Rev.1  • Samoa  
 
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  Table A2. 1 Reserved and restricted activities in the foreign investment regime  
Schedule 1: Reserved List  
Activity  Description  Related activities excluded  
Bus transport services for the 
general public  Urban, suburban and rural regularly 
scheduled multi-stop passenger transport 
on land. Services classified are motor -
bus, and similar services generally 
rendered on a licence basis within the 
confines of a single area or group of 
contiguous villages. These services are 
provided over predetermined route s on a 
predetermined time schedule, may 
provide pick -up and discharge of 
passengers at any scheduled stop, and 
are open to any user.  Bus services for private schools, 
hotels and tours, airport shuttles and 
buses for private businesses for 
transporting shif t workers. These 
services are provided over 
predetermined routes, and time 
schedule s, and are restricted to a 
category of user.  
Taxi transport  Motorized taxi -cab services, including 
urban, suburban and interurban. These 
services are generally rendered on a 
distance -travelled basis, for a limited 
duration of time, and to a specific 
destination.   
Rental vehicles  Renting, hiring or leasing services 
concerning private motor cars without 
driver , principally designed for the 
transport of persons.  Renting or hir ing services of private 
cars with drivers such as rental 
services of passenger cars with 
driver . 
Retail services  Retailing services of fresh, dried, frozen 
or canned fruits, nuts and vegetables.   
 Retailing services of dairy products and 
eggs.   
 Retailing services of meat, poultry and 
game, and meat products.   
 Retailing services of fresh, prepared and 
preserved fish, and other seafoods.   
 Retailing services of bread and other 
bakery products.   
 Retailing services of sugar confectionery, 
e.g. fruit or nuts preserved by sugar.   
 Retailing services of non -alcoholic or 
alcoholic beverages.  Retailing services of beverages for 
consumption on the premises.  
 Retailing services of tobacco products.   
 Retailing services of food products not 
elsewhere classified, e.g. rice, edible oils 
and fats, salt, coffee, tea, sugar, cocoa 
and spices, and noodles and similar 
farinaceous products.   
Saw milling  Facilities where logs are cut into timber.   
Traditional elei garment 
designing and printing  Garment printing and designing using a 
carved board (Upeti).   
 
 
Schedule 2: Restricted List  
Economic sector  Economic subsector  Conditions  
Fishing  Commercial fishing vessels – vessel 
categories A <11 m in length), B ( >11 m 
<12.5 m in length), C ( >12.5 m <15 m 
in length), D ( >15 m <20.5 m in length) 
and E ( >20.5m in length) , categorized by 
the Ministry responsible.  A foreign investor must have a 
maximum of 40% equity.  
A licence issued for commercial 
fishing vessels is limited in different 
categories listed by the Ministry 
responsible for fisheries, except for 
Category A , which has no limit.  
Manufacturing  Nonu (known scientifically as Morinda 
citrifolia ), is a tropical fruit processed as 
juice for many folk remedy uses).  A foreign investor must establish a 
joint venture with a local partner.  
 Virgin c oconut oil (coconut oil in its 
unrefined and natural form , without 
fragrance or other added preservatives , 
etc.) A foreign investor must establish a 
joint venture with a local partner.  
Services  Architectural  A foreign investor must establish a 
joint venture with a local partner.  
 Professional engineering  A foreign investor must be 
incorporated in Samoa.  
 General construction  Only through incorporation in Samoa.  WT/TPR/S/386 /Rev.1  • Samoa  
 
- 81 - 
 
  Schedule 2: Restricted List  
Economic sector  Economic subsector  Conditions  
 Sewage  A foreign investor must establish a 
joint venture with a local partner.  
 Refuse disposal  A foreign investor must establish a 
joint venture with a local partner.  
 Sanitation and similar services  A foreign investor must establish a 
joint venture with a local partner.  
Source:  Foreign Investment Amendment Act , 2011.  
  WT/TPR/S/386 /Rev.1  • Samoa  
 
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  Table A2. 2 WTO notifica tions, 2012 -18 
Products covered/subject  Description of notification  Document symbol  Date  
Agreement on Agriculture (notification under Articles 10 and 18.2)  
Domestic support  Covers 2012/13 and 
2013/14  G/AG/N/WSM/1  25/11/2014  
Export subsidies  No export subsidies in 
2012/13 and 2013/14  G/AG/N/WSM/2  24/11/2014  
Agreement on Implementation of the Article VI of the GATT 1994 (Anti -Dumping) and Agreement on 
Subsidies and Countervailing Measures (n otification under Article 16.4 and 25.12)  
Competent aut horities   G/ADP/N/14/Add.45  
G/SCM/N/18/Add.45  18/04/2018  
Agreement on Import Licensing Procedures (notification under Articles 1.4 (a) and 8.2 (b))  
Import licensing procedures  As published in the Official 
Gazette  G/LIC/N/1/WSM/1  30/09/2014  
Agreement on Preshipment Inspection (notification under Article 5)  
Laws or regulations on PSI  None G/PSI/N/1/Rev.1/Add.3  18/07/2013  
Agreement on Rules of Origin (notification under Article 5 and Paragraph 4 of Annex II)  
Non-preferential rules of origin  None G/RO/N/97  02/08/2013  
Agreement on Technical Barriers to Trade (notification under Article 15.2)  
Implementation and administration 
of the Agreement   G/TBT/2/Add.124  14/07/2017  
Agreement on Trade Facilitation (n otification under Article X.3 ) 
Category A commitments   WT/PCTF/N/SAM/1  02/11/2015  
Category B and C commitments   WT/PCTF/N/WSM/1  28/08/2018  
General Agreement on Trade in Services  (notification under Articles III:4 and IV:2 ) 
Contact and enquiry points   S/ENQ/78/Rev.14  25/10/2013  
Source:  WTO Secretariat.  
 
 
 
 WT/TPR/S/386 /Rev.1  • Samoa  
 
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  Table A3. 1 Tariff summary, 2018a 
  Number 
of lines  Average 
(%) Range 
(%) Standard 
deviation  Duty free 
(%) 
Total  5,483 (7)  11.4 0-90 6.5 3.3 
HS 01 -24 1,027 (7)  16.1 0-90 8.9 5.4 
HS 25 -97 4,456  10.3 0-50 5.3 2.9 
By WTO category       
WTO agricultural products  859 (7)  15.0 0-90 9.5 5.1 
   Animals and products thereof  124 12.7 0-20 7.8 15.3 
   Dairy products  34 3.8 0-8 3.2 38.2 
   Fruit, vegetables, and plants  220 18.3 0-20 4.3 0.5 
   Coffee and tea  27 13.3 5-20 6.5 0.0 
   Cereals and preparations  118 12.4 0-20 6.7 6.8 
   Oil seeds, fats, oil and their products  92 12.3 5-20 5.8 0.0 
   Sugars and confectionary  17 8.0 0-20 5.3 17.6 
   Beverages, spirits and tobacco  80 (7)  31.2 8-90 15.9 0.0 
   Cotton  5 8.0 8-8 0.0 0.0 
   Other agricultural products, n.e.s.  142 11.5 5-20 6.0 0.0 
WTO non -agricultural products  4,624  10.7 0-50 5.5 3.0 
   Fish and fishery products  235 18.6 0-20 4.8 4.7 
   Minerals and metals  926 8.8 0-20 3.7 2.7 
   Chemicals and photographic supplies  864 8.6 0-20 3.5 3.5 
   Wood, pulp, paper and furniture  267 9.7 0-20 4.4 0.7 
   Textiles  590 8.6 0-20 2.8 0.3 
   Clothing  218 20.0 20-20 0.0 0.0 
   Leather, rubber, footwear and travel goods  165 15.6 8-20 5.8 0.0 
   Non-electric machinery  535 8.8 0-20 3.1 0.2 
   Electric machinery  251 13.2 8-20 5.9 0.0 
   Transport equipment  173 7.8 0-20 7.5 37.0 
   Non-agricultural products, n.e.s.  386 14.4 5-20 6.0 0.0 
   Petroleum  14 11.2 0-50 13.5 21.4 
By ISIC sector       
   ISIC 1 - Agriculture, hunting and fishing  394 14.9 0-35 6.8 3.8 
   ISIC 2 - Mining  99 8.2 0-20 2.4 2.0 
   ISIC 3 - Manufacturing  4,989 (7)  11.2 0-90 6.4 3.3 
   Manufacturing excluding food processing  4,324  10.4 0-50 5.3 2.9 
   Electrical energy  1 8.0 8 0.0 0.0 
By stage of processing       
   First stage of processing  759 13.3 0-35 6.5 2.8 
   Semi-processed products  1,737  8.6 0-20 3.1 1.6 
   Fully processed products  2,987 (7)  12.5 0-90 7.4 4.5 
By HS section       
  01  Live animals and products  371 15.3 0-20 7.1 8.6 
  02  Vegetable products  321 15.0 0-20 6.4 2.2 
  03  Fats and oils  57 12.2 5-20 5.8 0.0 
  04  Prepared food, beverages and tobacco  278 (7)  19.3 0-90 12.0 5.8 
  05  Mineral products  159 8.2 0-50 4.2 3.1 
  06  Chemicals and products thereof  802 8.5 0-20 4.0 6.9 
  07  Plastics, rubber, and articles thereof  217 9.8 8-20 4.3 0.0 
  08  Raw hides and skins, leather, and their products  69 20.0 20-20 0.0 0.0 
  09  Wood and articles of wood  98 9.6 8-20 4.1 0.0 
  10  Pulp of wood, paper and paperboard  151 10.7 0-20 5.2 1.3 
  11  Textiles and textile articles  802 11.5 5-20 5.5 0.0 
  12  Footwear, headgear, etc.  49 19.5 8-20 2.4 0.0 
  13  Articles of stone, plaster, cement  147 9.1 8-20 3.5 0.0 
  14  Precious stones and metals, pearls  54 18.9 8-20 3.5 0.0 
  15  Base metals and articles thereof  577 8.2 5-20 1.8 0.0 
  16  Machinery, electrical equipment, etc.  788 10.5 0-20 4.9 0.1 
  17  Transport equipment  184 8.3 0-20 7.7 34.8 
  18  Precision equipment  212 12.9 8-20 5.9 0.0 
  19  Arms and ammunition  19 20.0 20-20 0.0 0.0 
  20  Miscellaneous manufactured articles  121 13.1 5-20 6.0 0.0 
  21  Works of art, etc.  7 20.0 20-20 0.0 0.0 
a As of 3rd April. 
Note:  Excluding seven specific rates (figures in brackets above ) and  including the ad valorem  part of 
alternate rates.  
Source:  WTO Secretariat calculations, based on data provided by the authorities.  
 
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