Free education, tax reduction on food, increase in district grant, return of 45 per cent Accident Compensation Commission (ACC) levy, increase in pension, a town on Salelologa, increase in sports funding and increasing doctor numbers are promises in the Samoa Uniting Party manifesto.

The party launched their manifesto on Tuesday morning at the Multi-Purpose Gym in Tuanaimato announcing they will field only 26 candidates.

The SUP has pledged to reduce the general Value Added Goods and Services Tax (VAGST) rate from 15 per cent to 12 per cent, and remove VAGST entirely from freezer goods. The party also committed to eliminating tax on electricity and reducing import duties at the wharf. A 20 per cent tax refund for taxpayers has also been promised if the party wins the election. The SUP plans to continue the district grant program, which will range from $1 million to $2 million per district, depending on size and need.

On healthcare, the party promised better resourcing for hospitals to cater to the needs of patients, especially pregnant women, pensioners, and young children. This includes free health checks for pregnant women, pensioners, and children under the age of two.

SUP also plans to partner with the Ministry of Health for the women in health programs to oversee a national health screening campaign and the distribution of sanitary products to women. The party proposes raising the number of doctors and nurses to 300, and purchasing new X-ray machines for national use.

In education, the manifesto promises free schooling from early childhood education through to university. $30 million will be allocated for this. These funds will support teacher salaries, school upgrades, technology initiatives, and parent-teacher associations.

The SUP outlined plans for major infrastructure projects, including roadworks aimed at reducing traffic congestion in Apia. The party has also promised to lower the current 20 sene per unit electricity rate and invest in boat renewals for Savai’i, along with the development of an international wharf at Asau.

They have pledged to rebuild and maintain the Salelologa township, distribute 5,000 plots of government land to families for development, and offer leases for agricultural use. Better internet connectivity across the country and the development of a national technology park are among the digital infrastructure priorities. The aim is to enhance Samoa’s technological expertise and services.

Funding for sports will be increased from $3 million to $15 million. The manifesto includes plans to build sports complexes in every district college, partnership with foreign sporting organisations for opportunities for Samon athletes, and upgrade sports facilities at Tuanaimato.

If elected, SUP will introduce a “Samoa mo Samoa” investment program and pledge to implement a carbon offset initiative to fight climate change. They propose to establish projects to protect 30 per cent of Samoa’s marine reserves and strengthen efforts to mitigate the impacts of flooding, hurricanes, and sea level rise.

The manifesto emphasises maintaining and strengthening Samoa’s foreign relations through continued engagement with Pacific neighbours, the European Union-Organisation of African, Caribbean and Pacific (OACPS) states, Alliance of Small Island States (AOSIS), and the Commonwealth. SUP proposes a visa-free arrangement for travel between Samoa, New Zealand, and Australia.

To support business, the party plans to provide a five per cent increase in government support for companies involved in development projects. A $50 million annual fund will be used to back these projects, including government guarantees for business bids. Locally made products will be prioritised, and businesses earning under $30,000 a year will be exempt from taxation.

SUP promises new machinery and technologies for farmers, incentives for meat production, and the construction of new agricultural facilities. The party also aims to expand export opportunities, particularly with American Samoa, and strengthen protections for Samoa’s fisheries.

The party aims to attract 250,000 tourists annually and expand the national inventory to 4,000 hotel rooms. Plans include hotel construction and renovation, beautification projects, and nationwide clean-up efforts to maintain Samoa’s natural appeal.

SUP proposes raising the retirement age to 60 and increasing the pension to $500 per month. Retirees would also receive a 45 per cent payout from the Accident Compensation Commission (ACC) upon retirement. Low-income families would receive $200 per month, and individuals with disabilities would receive the same support. Children who have been vaccinated would also receive a $200 grant. A $1 million fund would assist with housing construction for vulnerable families, while $3 million would be allocated to the private sector.

The party promises to meet annually with churches across Samoa to seek spiritual guidance and will prioritise the preservation of Samoan traditions, culture, fa’a Samoa, myths, legends, and heritage sites. They also commit to incremental salary reviews and pay increases, alongside $5 million allocated for women’s councils, caretakers and government programs addressing domestic violence and drug use.

A new partnership with Samoa Airways is proposed for the acquisition of a new aircraft, improving regional connectivity and bolstering the tourism sector.