Pacific Trade Officials Convene for Trade in Goods Course
Regional trade officials at the Pacific Regional Introductory Trade in Goods Course in Suva, Fiji. Photo: Fiji Government Regional trade officials at the Pacific Regional Introductory Trade in Goods Course in Suva, Fiji. Photo: Fiji Government The five-day capacity-building event, funded by the Australian Government and organised by the University of Adelaide’s Institute for International Trade in collaboration with Fiji’s Ministry for Trade, Cooperatives, Small and Medium Enterprises, and Communication, aims to empower Pacific trade officials with the necessary skills and knowledge to enhance trade relations within the region and beyond. The Course was opened by Hon. Mr. Manoa Kamikamica, Fiji’s Minister for Trade, Cooperatives, Small and Medium Enterprises, and Communications, highlighting the importance of such capacity-building efforts. “Together, we have the opportunity to leverage this training to bolster our collective efforts in regional and multilateral forums, shaping discussions, and advocating for the interests of our region on the international stage. I am confident that the knowledge and skills gained here will empower you all to navigate the complexities of global trade and create lasting positive impacts for our respective economies,” said Hon. Kamikamica. The Pacific Regional Introductory Trade in Goods Course’s primary objective is to provide a refresher on the current state of play in regional and international trade relations. This includes updating technical knowledge of Pacific regional trade agreements and international rules-based trading systems such as the World Trade Organisation. Participation in the course is part of the PPIU’s overall aim to develop Parties to build their trade capacities and allow them to effectively implement their obligations under the multilateral arrangements and regional trade agreements including PACER Plus. -END- More articles like this one
PACER Plus Ministers Meeting: Advancing Regional Economic Integration and Membership Expansion
APIA, Samoa – The Ministerial representatives of the Parties to the Pacific Agreement on Closer Economic Relations Plus (PACER Plus) convened virtually on 26 July 2023 under the chairmanship of Hon. Crossley Tatui, Minister for Infrastructure and Finance for Niue. The meeting saw government ministers and representatives from the 10 PACER Plus Parties – Australia, Cook Islands, Kiribati, New Zealand, Niue, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, and Vanuatu – along with representatives from the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat. Regrettably, Tuvalu conveyed their apologies as they were unable to attend. Ministers and officials from PACER Plus parties at the PACER Plus Ministers Meeting. Ministers took note of the significant achievements and progress made by the PACER Plus Implementation Unit and Labour Mobility Secretariat in delivering the annual work programme for FY2022-2023. Recognising the importance of supporting Pacific private sector businesses and enhancing their participation in regional and international trade, Ministers reaffirmed their commitment to realising the benefits of PACER Plus. The principles of inclusion, mutually agreed priorities, complementarity with existing regional activities, value for money, and timely support for economic recovery remained central to their approach. Expanding the members of PACER Plus was acknowledged as a valuable step towards enhancing regional economic integration. The Ministers emphasized that this expansion would foster more efficient and cost-effective supply chains, open up access to intra-regional and international markets, and attract foreign investment while boosting the positive impact of labour mobility. With keen interest from Nauru and other Forum Island Countries in ratifying the PACER Plus, the Ministers tasked the PACER Plus Implementation Unit and Labour Mobility Secretariat to actively engage these countries and facilitate their accession. The Ministers also highlighted the importance of addressing trade, investment, and labour mobility issues through streamlined regional activities that benefit all parties involved. Recognising the limitations in human resources and technical capacity within both public and private sectors, as well as the constraints in economic infrastructure and supply chain robustness, they underscored the need for coordinated efforts to implement reforms and capitalise on opportunities. Regarding labour mobility, the Ministers lauded the progress in the delivery of the labour mobility work program for Financial Year 2022-2023 and endorsed the activity plan for Financial Year 2023-2024. They acknowledged that these initiatives contributed directly to the development of a regional and holistic labour mobility policy and explored new opportunities for Pacific labour receiving countries. Emphasizing the value of the Pacific Labour Mobility Annual Meeting (PLMAM) in facilitating effective regional cooperation, the Ministers committed to supporting the implementation of agreed regional initiatives. Additionally, the Government of the United Kingdom’s offer to provide technical expertise to support the implementation of the Development and Economic Work Programme was acknowledged with appreciation. The Chair of the PACER Plus Ministers Meeting, Hon. Crossley Tatui, stated: “The PACER Plus agreement remains crucial for our region’s economic growth and prosperity. By working together and coordinating our efforts, we can harness the full potential of PACER Plus to enhance trade, investment, and labour mobility, ultimately improving the lives of our people across the Pacific.” The Ministers’ commitment to realising the benefits of PACER Plus and advancing regional economic integration promises a brighter future for the Pacific, fostering sustainable socio-economic development and resilience against global challenges. -END- More articles like this one
Enhancing Pacific Labour Mobility: Pacific-Australia-New Zealand Visa Pathways Study
APIA, Samoa –The PACER Plus Implementation Unit (PPIU) has recently concluded a comprehensive study to identify alternative visa pathways that can facilitate the movement of semi-skilled and skilled Pacific workers to Australia and New Zealand. The PACER Plus Agreement recognises the importance of the movement of people to regional economic integration and sustainable development in the Pacific. The Movement of Natural Persons (MNP) Chapter covers the movement of semi-skilled and skilled service providers to facilitate services trade, and the Arrangement on Labour Mobility (ALM), a non-legally binding annex to the PACER Plus Agreement. The ALM provides a framework for regional cooperation to facilitate the movement of Pacific workers to the territories of other participating countries for temporary employment. Currently, the predominant modality for Pacific labour mobility to Australia and New Zealand is the New Zealand Recognised Employer (RSE) and the Australian Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) schemes. These schemes are largely focused on low-skilled employment in the Australian and New Zealand horticulture and meat works industries. Pacific countries are also interested in understanding alternative business and temporary employment pathways that can increase development outcomes for their countries. For this reason, the PPIU commissioned the study to capture information on eligibility conditions, verify potential opportunities, understand access constraints, and propose solutions to increase utilisation of these visa pathways by Pacific workers and businesses. For Australia, the Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) (subclass 482) visa is the leading temporary work visa. From 2011-12 to 2021-22, only 1,848 TSS workers came from the Pacific, which is exceptionally low in comparison with the top countries for the TSS. The vast majority of the Pacific workers entering Australia on the TSS visa have been from Fiji and Papua New Guinea (PNG), with over 800 visas granted to workers from each country. The top sponsoring industries for Pacific workers on the TSS were ‘Mining’, ‘Other Services’, ‘Professional, Scientific and Technical’, ‘Health Care and Social Assistance’, ‘Manufacturing’, and ‘Retail Trade’. There has been a reduction in the overall use of this visa by Pacific workers over time. Australia Business Visitor visas granted to people from Pacific countries from 2012-13 to 2022-23 (to 31 March). Similarly, the primary temporary worker visa for New Zealand is the Accredited Employer Worker Visa (AEWV) and its predecessor visas that the AEWV subsumed in 2022. From 2013 to 2022, 22,803 workers from Pacific countries were granted an AEWV or one of its predecessor visas. This usage is exceptionally higher than the usage of the Australian TSS visa by Pacific workers and has increased over time, but this difference is driven by the use of AEWV by Fijian citizens, who make up 83.9 per cent of visa holders. The most common occupations taken up by Pacific AEWV visa holders were ‘Road and Rail Drivers’, ‘Automotive and Engineering Trades Workers’, ‘Farm, Forestry and Garden Workers’, ‘Construction Trades Workers’, and ‘Carers and Aides’. In addition to temporary work visas, Pacific businesspeople can temporarily travel to Australia and New Zealand for limited business purposes on business visas. Between 2012-13 and 2022-23 (until 31 March), Australia granted 72,404 business visitor visas to people from the Pacific. Businesspeople from PNG and Fiji have made the most use of this visa, with 28,474 and 18,352 visits respectively. For New Zealand, 18,378 business visas were issued to Pacific businesspeople between 2013 and 2022. While Pacific business visitors to NZ are significantly lower than Australia, business visitors to New Zealand have been relatively consistent up until 2020. Similar to Australia, most of these visitors came from Fiji (9,684 visits) and PNG (3,033 visits). The study identified that the constraints currently limiting Pacific access to the temporary employment and business visitor visas cover both systemic constraints and visa-specific constraints. A number of recommendations were provided to address these constraints. To read the full report titled “Mapping of Visa Pathways for Mode 4 and Semi-Skilled/Skilled Labour Mobility to Australia and New Zealand”, please refer to www.pacerplus.org or click here. -END- More articles like this one
Report on Constraints and Opportunities in Remittance Data Collection in the Pacific
APIA, Samoa – The PACER Plus Implementation Unit (PPIU), in collaboration with the Asian Development Bank (ADB), is pleased to release the report titled “Constraints and Opportunities in Pacific Remittance Data Collection: Study on Remittances Data and Measurement Constraints in Pacific Labour Sending Countries”. This comprehensive research report sheds light on the remittance landscape in three case study countries, namely Kiribati, Solomon Islands, and Tonga. It provides valuable recommendations for enhancing remittance data collection and analysis in the Pacific, aiming to inform policy decisions and support sustainable development in the region. The report underscores the importance of remittances for Pacific labour sending countries. For many of these countries, the level of remittances received exceeds the amount of foreign direct investment (FDI), export receipts, portfolio flows from financial markets, and even foreign aid. In Tonga for example, remittances in 2020 accounted for 39% of its Gross Domestic Product, while export receipts accounted for only 19%, FDI only 9%, and official overseas aid was less than half the value of remittances. Remittance flows have also been found to be more resilient during times of economic downturn including during the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic and have provided an important ‘safety valve’ to cushion the impact on household incomes and therefore having a direct impact on poverty alleviation. Measuring the volume of remittance flows from labour mobility workers to their Pacific countries of origin is not without its challenges. Pacific labour sending countries have raised concerns on the quality and accuracy of remittances data. To address these concerns, the PPIU commissioned the study to identify the key constraints to remittances data collection and analysis and to determine measures for addressing these constraints. According to the report, the key constraints to remittances data collection and analysis in the region include: Lack of reliable and comprehensive data on remittances in some countries, with insufficient disaggregation of data regarding the sender of remittances. Limited capacity of central banks to collect, analyse, and report on remittance data effectively. Dependence on money transfer operators (MTOs) for data collection resulting in inconsistent data reporting practices. Lack of coordination and collaboration among stakeholders involved in remittance data collection and analysis hampers efforts to obtain accurate and timely data. Despite these challenges, the report identifies several opportunities to improve remittance data collection and analysis in Pacific countries. These opportunities include: Support from international agencies: International agencies offer technical assistance, funding for surveys, collaboration meetings, and research reports and recommendations. Technological advancements: Innovations such as mobile wallets present new avenues for data disaggregation in remittance analysis. Policy interest: Policymakers in Pacific countries exhibit a strong interest in utilising remittances as a tool for economic development and poverty reduction. To address the constraints and capitalise on the opportunities, the report puts forth a number of recommendations which will frame the work that the PPIU will deliver on remittances in the region. To read the full report, please refer to www.pacerplus.org or click here. -END- More articles like this one
PACER Plus Fumigation Training to Enhance Biosecurity Measures in Vanuatu
PORT VILA, Vanuatu – Pacific countries are facing multiple capacity constraints in the crucial areas of biosecurity requirements, treatments, and general Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) Measures. Recognising the significance of addressing these challenges, the PACER Plus Implementation Unit (PPIU) has organised a comprehensive training program on fumigation treatment and accreditation scheme, aimed at strengthening the skills and knowledge of biosecurity and quarantine personnel in Vanuatu. Armstrong Sam, Director of Biosecurity Vanuatu, (fourth from left) flanked by representatives of Nordiko Quarantine Systems and biosecurity officials from Samoa, Solomon Islands, and Vanuatu. The four-day training which commences today will focus on providing participants with a better understanding of the application and handling of methyl bromide, a widely used fumigant known as ‘toxic gas’. By equipping the participants with the necessary expertise, this initiative aims to enhance compliance with Australian import requirements and improve overall biosecurity measures. The PPIU has collaborated closely with the Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Forestry (DAFF) to ensure the alignment of training activities for the Australian component of this program. In this regard, Australian company Nordiko Quarantine Systems has been chosen as the key training provider due to their expertise and reputation as the main supplier of fumigation equipment to the Pacific. Mr. Armstrong Sam, Director of Biosecurity Vanuatu, expressed his support for this training program, stating, “There are multiple capacity constraints in the areas of biosecurity requirements, treatments, and general SPS Measures in Vanuatu. This activity will provide training to biosecurity and quarantine personnel, providing a better understanding for the application and safe handling of methyl bromide.” This training program represents a significant step forward in strengthening biosecurity measures and enhancing the capacity of Pacific National Plant Protection Organisations and stakeholders along the plant export pathway. By equipping biosecurity personnel with the necessary skills, knowledge, and tools, the program aims to bolster compliance with international standards, thereby safeguarding the agricultural industries and environments of Pacific countries. -END- More articles like this one
Exporting Samoan Taro to New Zealand
Empowering Farmers and Nurturing Communities In the heart of Samoa, where lush green fields stretch under the embrace of the Pacific sun, a remarkable story of resilience and opportunity unfolds. Meet Seuamuli Kome Robbie Lauano, a 48-year-old entrepreneur whose dedication and resourcefulness have brought the flavours of Samoan taro to the shores of New Zealand, thanks to the support of the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries (MAF) Samoa and the PACER Plus Implementation Unit. Mr. Lauano’s journey began with a simple but profound realisation. He saw the untapped potential of small farmers in Samoa who lacked the opportunity to export their produce. Determined to bridge this gap, Mr. Lauano reached out to the PACER Plus Implementation Unit, which utilised its networks to support Mr Lauano. With a vision of empowering local farmers, Mr. Lauano set out to purchase their taro, offering fair prices that sustained their families in numerous ways. By eliminating the middlemen and directly supporting the farmers, he not only ensured their financial stability but also fostered a sense of hope and optimism within the community. Iopu Ma’aolo (left), a farmer from Savai’i, smiles as he receives WS$1,080 in cash from Seuamuli Kome Robbie Lauano for the export of his taro. Through Mr. Lauano’s efforts, over 2,000 kilograms of Samoan taro made their way to New Zealand, crossing borders with zero tariffs under the PACER Plus agreement. The destination was Papakura Wholesale Meats Direct, a store in Auckland, New Zealand owned by Mr. Lauano and his business partner, Toomata Paul Stowers. The response from consumers were overwhelming, as word spread about the availability of fresh, high-quality Samoan taro. Throngs of eager customers travelled from Otara, Manurewa, and Mangere to savour the taste of these traditional delights. The aroma of boiled taro filled the air, as families gathered around tables adorned with the bounty from Samoa. The connection to their cultural heritage was rekindled, and the demand for Samoan taro soared. For Mr. Iopu Ma’aolo, a 35-year-old farmer from Savai’i, this newfound opportunity brought tangible improvements to his family’s life. With a beaming smile, he shared how he earned WS$1,080 (US$400) from the export of his taro. Comparing the current market prices, he expressed gratitude for the upfront payment and the increased value of his produce. The additional income would help secure a brighter future for his two children, offering them improved access to education and healthcare. Avea Vaoga (right), a farmer from Savai’i, receives WS$5,400 from Seuamuli Kome Robbie Lauano which he plans to invest in his farm. Similarly, Mr. Avea Vaoga, a 52-year-old farmer also from Savai’i, rejoiced at the fruits of his labour. When he received a cash payment of WS$5,400 (US$2,000) for his taro, his joy knew no bounds. As a community leader, Mr. Vaoga understood the significance of this opportunity not only for his family but also for the entire community. With his newfound earnings, he planned to invest in his farm, providing employment to young men in the village. The prospect of agricultural prosperity excited him, as he envisioned a future where opportunities for export continued to uplift local farmers. Beyond the financial gains, the export of Samoan taro holds deeper significance. It symbolises a revival of cultural identity and pride, reminding Samoans living abroad of their roots. The aroma, taste, and texture of this traditional staple transport them back to cherished memories and traditions, strengthening the bonds that unite the Samoan diaspora. The success of Mr. Lauano’s venture highlights the importance of empowering local farmers and supporting agricultural growth in Pacific countries. Samoa’s MAF and the PACER Plus Implementation Unit’s role in supporting this journey serves as a testament to the transformative power of collaboration and opportunity. As the sun sets over the expansive taro fields of Samoa, Mr. Lauano continues to work tirelessly, bridging the gap between farmers and distant markets. His story is a testament to the resilience and determination of Pacific communities and a beacon of hope for farmers who dare to dream of a brighter future. With each kilogram of Samoan taro exported, a legacy of empowerment, sustainability, and cultural preservation is written, one that echoes through generations to come. -END- More articles like this one
PACER Plus Boosts Tuvalu’s Tourism Development
FUNAFUTI, Tuvalu – The Pacific Agreement on Closer Economic Relations Plus (PACER Plus) supported the development of Tuvalu’s tourism sector through a capacity building initiative aimed at improving skills of accommodation service, food and beverage service staff, and the business owners active in the industry. Tuvalu’s Department of Tourism with the support of the PACER Plus Implementation Unit (PPIU) has delivered the Tuvalu Tourism Development Training which aims to enhance the quality of standards in professional housekeeping, culinary skills, and hospitality management, strengthening the tourism industry’s contribution to the country’s GDP and national development. The Tuvalu Tourism Department, in partnership with the PPIU, organised a Tourism Industry Roundtable to explore the potential for growth and development in Tuvalu’s tourism sector. Tuvalu recognizes the importance of tourism in achieving its national vision of “A Peaceful, Resilient, and Prosperous Tuvalu”. The initiative aligns with Tuvalu’s National Development Strategy Te Kete 2021-2031 and the Tuvalu Sustainable Tourism Policy 2022-2032, both emphasizing the role of tourism in job creation, income generation, and skill development. Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, tourism in Tuvalu had been steadily growing, with increasing visitor numbers and tourism receipts. In 2019, tourism earnings accounted for an estimated 5.6 per cent of the country’s GDP, providing employment opportunities for the people of Tuvalu. With the launch of the PACER Plus Tuvalu Tourism Development Training, Tuvalu aims to further harness the potential of its tourism sector. Mrs. Silaati Timo, Acting CEO of the Ministry of Transport, Energy, and Tourism, expressed her optimism about the training, stating: “Tourism has always been a significant contributor to our economy, providing employment opportunities and fostering growth across various sectors. With the support of PACER Plus, we can further enhance our tourism offerings, improve our service quality, and create a sustainable industry that benefits all Tuvaluans.” The program’s emphasis on professional standards and skills training resonates with industry experts. Mr. Joe Lam, a culinary trainer and Samoan chef, expressed his support, saying: “The training will be instrumental in uplifting the skills of the local entrepreneurs and employees in the tourism and hospitality sector.” Mr. Horace Evans, culinary trainer and Samoan chef, agreed: “By equipping them with the necessary knowledge and expertise, we can unlock their potential for innovation and entrepreneurship, ensuring a vibrant tourism industry.” Culinary trainer and chef Horace Evans (far left) with the staff of L’s Lodge in Funafuti, Tuvalu. Ms. Kate Payne, Professional Housekeeping Trainer, also shared her thoughts on the training, saying: “Quality and standards play a critical role in the success of any tourism sector. By investing in the training and upskilling of the tourism workforce, Tuvalu will be better equipped to meet international standards and exceed visitor expectations.” The PACER Plus Tuvalu Tourism Development Training aligns with the country’s broader national policies and strategies, including the Tuvalu National Trade Development Strategy 2022-2026, which identifies tourism as a priority growth sector. By integrating tourism into national supply chains and strengthening hospitality training domestically, Tuvalu aims to expand its market reach and promote investment in the tourism sector. -END- More articles like this one
PACER Plus Regional ePhyto Project Empowers Agricultural Trade in the Pacific
APIA, Samoa – The Pacific Agreement on Closer Economic Relations Plus (PACER Plus) hosted a Regional ePhyto Webinar on Thursday, 15 June 2023, bringing together key stakeholders from across the Pacific to explore the potential of electronic phytosanitary certification in improving facilitation of agricultural trade. The virtual event marked a significant milestone in advancing digital solutions for trade facilitation and bolstering economic growth in the region – at the completion of the first year of the ePhyto Capability Project. The PACER Plus Regional ePhyto Webinar was attended by Pacific government officials, regional partners, and industry stakeholders. The PACER Plus Regional ePhyto Webinar was attended by government officials, industry representatives, and experts in phytosanitary systems. Mr Peter Neimanis, the PACER Plus ePhyto Consultant, provided a presentation on the benefits and challenges of adopting electronic phytosanitary certification, sharing best practices, and exploring strategies for effective implementation. Mr Neimanis highlighted the transformative potential of ePhyto in streamlining trade processes and ensuring the safety and quality of agricultural products. “The PACER Plus ePhyto Webinar represents a significant step forward in enhancing trade efficiency and sustainability in the Pacific. By digitizing phytosanitary certification, we can reduce paperwork, improve accuracy, and expedite the flow of goods, ultimately benefiting both exporters, importers, and government agencies,” he said. The webinar also showcased successful ePhyto implementation updates from Cook Islands, Kiribati, Solomon Islands, and Tonga, underscoring the positive impact of electronic certification on trade facilitation. ePhyto will enhance trade efficiency and sustainability in the Pacific, said Mr Peter Neimanis (left). PACER Plus is a regional development-centered trade and investment agreement aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals. The agreement is designed to support Pacific countries to stimulate economic growth by becoming more active partners in, and benefit from, regional and global trade. Ten countries are currently parties to the agreement: Australia, Cook Islands, Kiribati, New Zealand, Niue, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu, and Vanuatu. -END- More articles like this one
PACER Plus Supports Kiribati in Developing Entrepreneurship Curriculum for Labour Mobility Workers
TARAWA, Kiribati – PACER Plus, through the Arrangement on Labour Mobility, assisted Kiribati in developing an Entrepreneurship Curriculum to develop the entrepreneurial skills of workers and their households and ultimately increase the economic development impact of labour mobility in Kiribati. The PACER Plus Implementation Unit’s (PPIU) labour mobility work programme seeks to enhance the development benefits of labour mobility for participating countries, particularly Pacific PACER Plus Parties. One of the ways by which labour mobility can be leveraged for sustainable economic development in the Pacific is through economic reintegration including through entrepreneurship and business investments by labour mobility workers, their households, and local communities. In recognition of this development potential, the government of Kiribati requested the support of the PPIU to develop an entrepreneurship training curriculum and training of trainers programme to help to develop the entrepreneurial skills of i-Kiribati labour mobility workers and their families. PACER Plus developed an entrepreneurship training curriculum and training of trainers programme to help develop the entrepreneurial skills of i-Kiribati labour mobility workers and their families. “Our labour mobility workers are an important development dividend for Kiribati and one of the ways we can harness this dividend is through encouraging entrepreneurship and business investments. Many workers and their households are interested in business investments but lack entrepreneurial skills. This curriculum is part of our initiatives to cultivate a culture of entrepreneurship amongst our workers and their families, enabling them to maximise the benefits of labour mobility and contribute to Kiribati’s economic growth,” said Mr. Rui Tabutoa, Secretary for the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Cooperatives in Kiribati. The curriculum development and training of trainers programme was completed in March of this year and the first training session was delivered in May by trainers from the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Cooperatives, who were trained in the PPIU-funded Training of Trainers Programme. This is the beginning of a series of trainings that will empower Kiribati workers with the valuable entrepreneurial skills and knowledge to enhance their economic prospects and create sustainable businesses. “The entrepreneurship training modules for Kiribati is an important part of the PPIU’s work to support economic reintegration programmes that can harness the development benefits of labour mobility for Pacific sending countries. The curriculum covers various aspects of entrepreneurship, including business planning, financial management, marketing strategies and risk management,” said Dr Alisi Holani, PACER Plus Labour Mobility Specialist. “We are pleased to see the first training being delivered by trainers that were trained in our Training of Trainers programme and we will continue to monitor so as to ensure that anticipated outcomes are delivered for Kiribati,” she added. PACER Plus Implementation Unit remains committed to supporting Kiribati’s efforts in promoting entrepreneurship and enhancing economic opportunities for her people. This initiative reflects the shared vision of PACER Plus and the Government of Kiribati to harness the potential of labour mobility and empower Pacific peoples to build prosperous and sustainable livelihoods. -END- More articles like this one
PACER Plus supports Samoan exporters and stakeholders in improving trade through ePhytos
APIA, Samoa – More than 10 Samoan exporters attended the opening of the PACER Plus ePhyto Workshop in Apia today. Hosted by the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries (MAF), the three-day workshop is funded by the Pacific Agreement on Closer Economic Relations (PACER) Plus Implementation Unit. PACER Plus is a regional development-centered trade and investment agreement aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals. The Agreement is designed to support Pacific Island countries to stimulate economic growth by becoming more active partners in, and benefit from, regional and global trade. Ten countries are currently parties to the Agreement: Australia, Cook Islands, Kiribati, New Zealand, Niue, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu, and Vanuatu. Samoa’s Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries, Hon. La’aulialemalietoa Leuatea Polataivao Fosi Schmidt, officially opened the workshop stressing the importance of the activity to Samoan exporters as it fosters opportunities in using technology to exchange phytosanitary certificates through a safe and secure platform. “ePhyto promotes opportunities to improve bilateral trade in the region and other parts of the world. It will advance trade efficiency by reducing costs associated with bilateral negotiations and reduce fraudulent certificates. The ePhyto system will improve trade thereby improving incomes, creating more employment opportunities, and thereby enhancing economic development,” said Hon. La’aulialemalietoa. ePhyto is short for “electronic phytosanitary certificate”. The International Plant Protection Convention ePhyto Solution is a tool that transitions paper phytosanitary certificate information into a digital phytosanitary certificate or “ePhyto”. This electronic exchange between countries makes trade safer, faster, and cheaper. Manual phytosanitary certification creates issues for government and industry due to erroneous, lost, fraudulent, and delayed certification. ePhyto looks to minimise or eliminate such trade facilitation problems. “This workshop will build the capacity of Samoa, as a party to PACER Plus, providing the change management assistance necessary for government officials and industry to become proficient in using the ePhyto system. This covers the transition from paper to electronic, training on the IT skills needed for issuing ePhyto, and ‘training the trainers’ to ensure skills are transferred on,” said PACER Plus Implementation Unit’s Trade and Investment Adviser, Alipate Tavo. MAF Minister, Hon. La’aulialemalietoa thanked the support of PACER Plus in facilitating safe trade in Samoa. “I am very delighted to acknowledge on behalf of the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries, our appreciation to PACER Plus and the Pacific Community for all your continued support and collaboration to facilitate safe trade. It is extremely important that we work together because it paves the way to a promising future for trade between Samoa and other countries. It is a light at the end of the tunnel for many of our Samoan exporters who are looking for opportunities to reduce red tapes and fraudulent certificates,” said Hon. La’aulialemalietoa. The PACER Plus ePhyto Workshop will conclude on Friday, 9 December. More articles like this one