A new agricultural pact with Australia could provide the means to innovate the agriculture sector by benefiting the farmers.

The Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries (MAF) and the Australian Government-funded Market Development Facility (MDF) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on Thursday.

This is to strengthen collaboration and drive innovation in Samoa’s agriculture sector.

This strategic partnership aims to enhance food security, improve rural livelihoods and build climate resilience by combining MAF’s technical expertise with MDF’s market-driven approach. Together, they will explore solutions to key challenges, such as managing the feral pig issue through research, trials and national strategy development; strengthening kava and cocoa value chains via improving quality standards, processing and marketing; expanding farmers’ access to agricultural inputs and mechanisation services; and integrating climate resilience across all activities. MDF will work with a range of partners to ensure that these initiatives create sustainable, commercially viable solutions that benefit farmers and agribusinesses.

Dr Seuseu Tauati, Chief Executive Officer of MAF, said the MOU reflects a shared vision for a stronger, more resilient agriculture sector.

“MDF have been vital in supporting the Ministry on trending agriculture issues especially feral pigs, which has caused other major development agencies to follow suit. MDF's support in identifying critical gaps and strengthening the Ministry's Advisory Services, which is its major function, will ensure essential agriculture information is effectively disseminated to farmers and stakeholders."

The partnership will also strengthen the Ministry’s institutional capacity through targeted technical support and knowledge sharing. MDF will support MAF to become better equipped to deliver high-quality advisory services, improve extension systems, and implement innovative solutions that benefit farmers and rural communities.

Australia, through the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), supports MDF’s work in Samoa and across the Pacific.

Will Robinson, Australian High Commissioner, said Australia was proud to support this partnership.

“It aligns with our commitment to promoting sustainable economic development in the Pacific. By strengthening agricultural systems, we are helping communities build resilience and secure better livelihoods."

Susan Inu, Country Coordinator for MDF Samoa, highlighted the importance of partnerships in tackling sector challenges.

“Collaboration is key to unlocking opportunities for inclusive growth. Through this partnership, MDF and MAF will combine expertise to address critical challenges such as climate resilience, value chain development and improved access to agricultural services."

The MOU sets the stage for practical, impactful initiatives that will benefit farmers, agribusinesses and rural communities across Samoa.