The Samoa Chamber of Commerce and the Ministry of Finance recently held a high level dialogue relating to this year’s Government Budget 2019/2020, Public-Private Partnerships and the Enabling Environment for Business. 

The dialogue at the beginning of the month is held annually and is provided as an avenue for more transparent and robust discussions on Government and Private Sector collaboration in improving the business environment for Samoa. 

This year’s agenda focused on the Government policy environment for business, policy implementation and enforcement and Government targeted support for businesses in their respective industry sectors (services, agriculture, tourism, manufacturing etc.). 

The Chamber encouraged a strengthening in policy implementation and effective policy enforcement for a level playing field for businesses. In addition, the dialogue also emphasized the need for improved efficiency in government service delivery. 

The Chamber also encouraged that private sector be included in policy implementation. The Chamber acknowledged various government development initiatives to support Samoa’s business environment, such as Faleolo International Airport, Samoa Airways and Apia Waterfront Development Project. 

The Ministry of Finance reiterated that improvements are expected to be made within ministries regarding frontline staff to improve service delivery, as well as Government undergoing tax reviews to ensure better tax policies that benefit of our private sector. 

CEO for MoF, Leasiosio Oscar Malielegaoi stated that the Samoa 2040 Document is being drafted – which will be the long-term vision that guides the Government’s development strategy. 

This long term strategy will focus on Samoa’s transformational sectors such as agriculture and fisheries, tourism, expansion of our economic base, digital transformation and a safe and stable Samoa. In doing so, it was reiterated that Government and Private Sector collaboration is crucial.   

President of Chamber, Jennifer Ula Fruean extended her thanks to the Ministry of Finance for the ongoing partnership and opportunity to meet with the Private Sector. It was highlighted that the dialogue will continue throughout the year between the Chamber and in line ministries.