Cultivating More Than Crops in Samoa
The first rays of sunlight hit the taro fields of Lefaga village in Samoa, and 33-year-old Kent Onesemo is already at work. The morning air is alive with low hum of a brush cutter, the chatter of farmhands, and the occasional call of cattle grazing nearby. It’s a familiar routine for Kent, a father of six who has learned that farming, like life, demands patience, grit and vision. “I have a full-time job,” Kent says, wiping sweat from his brow. “But it wasn’t enough to support my family. I knew I had to do something more.” Kent Onesemo at his farm in Lefaga, Samoa. Four years ago, he turned to farming, planting taro and raising cattle on six acres of land. What began as a side effort to ease financial strain soon grew into something bigger. After two years of supplying Samoa’s local markets, Kent ventured into exports. His very first month abroad brought in WST$12,000 (AU$6,700). “It was exciting but overwhelming,” he admits. “The demand was there, but I couldn’t keep up with it.” Rather than risk burning out, Kent made the bold choice to pause exports while he focused on expanding and strengthening his farm. That expansion was given a boost in July 2025 when the Pacific Agreement on Closer Economic Relations Plus (PACER Plus), through the Samoa Farmers Association, provided over WST$89,000 (AU$50,000) worth of farming and processing equipment to local farmers. Kent was among the 1,000 beneficiaries. The support included taro chippers, multi-use grinders, tillers, ground drillers, brush cutters, and chainsaws — all tools that turned Kent’s ambitions into achievable plans. “The equipment from PACER Plus came just when I needed it most,” Kent says. “It has lifted the pressure and helped me prepare for the next stage of exports.” But Kent’s story isn’t just about farming. It’s also about redefining what it means to be a farmer in the Pacific. Under the name Samoan Farmer, Kent has carved out a space online where he documents his journey. His YouTube channel has almost 17,000 subscribers, with thousands more following him on Facebook and Instagram. His videos blend farm tutorials with moments of candid honesty. They’ve struck a chord so much so that six Samoans have launched their own farms after watching Kent’s content. “That’s the best part. Knowing my story is inspiring others to start their own.” Kent Onesemo After a hard day’s work at the farm, Kent Onesemo is ready to transport some of his produce to the local market. What began as a way to share knowledge has also grown into a business. With his video production skills, Kent has created commercials for local companies, bringing in more than WST$50,000 in revenue. His website, www.samoanfarmer.com, now sells branded merchandise. Still, Kent’s focus remains on the bigger picture: using his journey to encourage young Samoan and Pacific people to embrace technology as a tool for growth. “We’re great at using social media for fun, but not enough for building skills or learning about financial literacy,” he says. “I want young Samoans to have a vision for themselves. To step out of their comfort zones and take chances.” Of course, farming isn’t without its challenges. There are days when the work feels too heavy, the market too demanding, or the weather too unforgiving. “But that’s when I push harder,” Kent explains. “It’s like driving up a steep hill — you’ve got to press the accelerator a little more to get over the top. Once you’re there, the view makes it worth it.” For Kent, the view is more than financial stability. It’s the pride of seeing his children run through the taro rows, the satisfaction of exporting Samoan produce to the world, and the knowledge that he is building something that others can follow. “You can never do this alone,” he says. “It takes family, community, and support like PACER Plus to make it possible.” -ENDS- More articles like this one
PACER Plus Delivers Over $89,000 in Farming Equipment to Boost Agriculture Sector
APIA, Samoa – Samoan farmers received a major boost today with the official handover of more than WST$89,000 (AU$50,000) worth of farming and processing equipment to the Samoa Farmers Association (SFA), thanks to support from the Pacific Agreement on Closer Economic Relations (PACER) Plus. The new equipment – ranging from coffee bean roasters and electric winnowers to taro chippers, multi-use grinders, tillers, ground drillers, brushcutters and chainsaws – is part of the broader project aimed at empowering Samoa’s farming community through increased productivity, improved livelihoods, and stronger market linkages. Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries, Hon. Niuava Eti Malolo. SFA, which represents more than 1,000 farmers across Samoa – including women’s groups, church-based farming collectives, and youth enterprises – will roll out this support through its Empowering Agriculture Project. The project focuses on equipping farmers with the tools they need to improve both the quantity and quality of their produce, enabling greater access to domestic, regional, and international markets. Speaking at the handover ceremony, the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries, Hon. Niuava Eti Malolo, acknowledged the significance of the initiative, highlighting its alignment with Samoa’s broader trade and development aspirations. “For Samoa, the PACER Plus Agreement opens doors to new avenues in trade and investment. It aids in refining our systems and standards, enabling more of our local products to meet international market requirements. This is especially significant for agriculture – a sector that remains the backbone of our economy and a vital source of income for many Samoan families.” Hon. Niuava Eti Malolo, Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries. Mr. Roy Lagolago, Head of the PACER Plus Implementation Unit (PPIU), said the initiative aligns with PACER Plus’s development goals of enabling Pacific farmers and small businesses to participate more effectively in trade. “PACER Plus was designed with a vision of driving economic growth and improving the livelihoods of people in the Pacific Island nations,” said Mr. Lagolago. “Through fostering an environment conducive to trade and investment, it enhances regional cooperation and broadens our access to international markets. Today’s handover is a reflection of that mission in action.” PACER Plus supported the project through its Development and Economic Cooperation (DEC) Work Programme, funded by the Australian and New Zealand governments, which assists Pacific Island countries in implementing the PACER Plus Agreement and unlocking trade-related development benefits. Samoa Farmers Association president, Sala Sagato Tuiafiso. SFA President Mr. Sala Sagato Tuiafiso expressed his appreciation for the support and said it will have a lasting impact on the agricultural sector. “Our farmers are the backbone of Samoa’s economy, and this equipment is timely,” said Mr. Sagato. “It will improve how we process, preserve, and present our crops for market. We are especially proud that this support will reach those who need it most – women, youth, and rural farmers – ensuring no one is left behind.” The SFA will work closely with the PPIU to monitor the use and impact of the equipment, supported by a quarterly reporting process and follow-up surveys with farmers and stakeholders. This collaborative approach will help measure tangible outcomes such as increased productivity, improved quality, and access to new markets. The Empowering Agriculture Project also includes plans for future capacity building initiatives, strengthening farmers’ knowledge in sustainable farming practices, post-harvest handling, and business development. -ENDS- More articles like this one
Bottling the Fragrance of Samoa
How Mailelani is Turning Coconuts into Global Success The sweet scent of moso’oi (ylang-ylang) and rich cocoa butter hangs in the air as Sylvie Salanoa carefully inspects a fresh batch of coconut oil soap at her Mailelani Samoa Body Care gift shop outside Apia, Samoa. It’s a far cry from the humble beginnings 25 years ago when she and her husband Kitiona first dreamed of creating soap from Samoan coconuts in their family kitchen. “We started with one simple question,” Sylvie recalls, her hands holding a bar of their signature frangipani-scented soap. “How can we share the true essence of Samoa with the world?” Today, that question has blossomed into a thriving business with eight varieties of artisan soaps, luxurious body oils, exfoliating scrubs, and their newest triumph — a premium facial care line launched in early 2024 with support from the PACER Plus Agreement. From Kitchen Experiments to International Shelves The journey wasn’t without its challenges. “Oh, we wanted to give up many times!” Sylvie laughs. Early batches didn’t set properly. Supply chains were unpredictable. Export regulations seemed impossible to navigate. But through perseverance and community support, what began as a cottage industry now supplies retailers across Samoa, Australia, New Zealand and beyond. Each product tells a distinctly Samoan story. The cocoa range pays homage to the islands’ national drink. The delicate frangipani line celebrates the flower Samoan women traditionally wear behind their ears. The moso’oi captures the islands’ signature fragrance. “What makes Mailelani special is that we’re not just making products — we’re preserving culture,” Sylvie explains. “When someone uses our cocoa body butter, we want them to feel connected to Samoa’s rich traditions.” Rooted in Community, Growing Through Trade The business model is as sustainable as their ingredients. Mailelani sources raw materials from rural villages across Samoa, creating economic opportunities while maintaining authentic island recipes. This community-focused approach caught the attention of the PACER Plus Implementation Unit (PPIU). “Mailelani represents exactly what PACER Plus was designed to support. By assisting with their packaging clearance costs, we’re helping a homegrown business scale up while maintaining its cultural integrity. Their success shows how regional trade agreements can empower Pacific entrepreneurs to compete globally without compromising local values.” Alipate Tavo, PPIU Trade Adviser For Sylvie, the PACER Plus support came at the perfect moment. “That new facial line was our dream for years, but the import costs for proper packaging seemed impossible. When PACER Plus stepped in, it was confirmation from God telling us to ‘keep going’.” The Sweet Smell of Success While setting up her products, Sylvie reflects on the unexpected rewards of their quarter-century journey. “The creativity we’ve discovered, the people we’ve met, the places our little soaps have traveled — it’s more than we ever imagined.” She gently places a newly wrapped moso’oi soap into a gift box, ready for its journey to a boutique in Auckland. “Every time someone opens one of our products, they’re experiencing a piece of Samoa. That makes every challenge worthwhile.” With their expanded product line and growing international presence, Mailelani Samoa Body Care continues to prove that traditional wisdom and modern entrepreneurship can create something truly beautiful. Or as Sylvie puts it: “We’re not just selling soap — we’re sharing alofa (love) from our islands to the world.” Mailelani Samoa Body Care products are available at select retailers in Samoa and online by clicking here. Did You Know? Mailelani means “from heaven” in Samoan. All products are made with sustainably sourced local ingredients. The business supports dozens of rural Samoan families through its supply chain. -ENDS- More articles like this one
PPIU Contributes to CHOGM 2024 in Samoa
The PACER Plus Implementation Unit (PPIU) played a role in promoting trade and economic growth across the Pacific at the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) 2024, held in Apia, Samoa from 21-26 October. Mr. Roy Lagolago, Head of the PPIU, spoke at the Commonwealth Business Forum, a CHOGM side event, delivering insights on the theme of “Reducing Barriers to Trade”. His address emphasised PACER Plus’s contributions to fostering sustainable economic growth, increasing trade opportunities, and empowering Pacific businesses to thrive in a competitive global market. Mr. Roy Lagolago, Head of the PPIU, meeting His Majesty King Charles III, the King of the United Kingdom and Head of the Commonwealth. This year’s Commonwealth Business Forum focused on the theme “One Resilient Common Future: Transforming Our Common Wealth,” exploring key pillars such as access to finance, technological innovation, sustainability, and workforce transformation. Mr. Lagolago highlighted how PACER Plus is helping Pacific Island nations navigate these critical areas by providing the tools needed to overcome trade barriers, enhance market access, and promote sustainable development. In addition to his speech at the forum, Mr. Lagolago participated in several high-profile events on the margins of CHOGM 2024. One of these was the unveiling of the Commonwealth Investment Action Plan–a major initiative aimed at increasing trade and investment among Commonwealth nations. The plan is particularly focused on helping small and vulnerable states attract investment and meeting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030. It complements other Commonwealth initiatives, including the Commonwealth Blue Charter and the Climate Finance Access Hub, which are essential to addressing climate change and fostering resilience across member states. The PPIU was honoured to host bilateral discussions for Mr. Anthony Albanese (third from left), the Australian Prime Minister and other Commonwealth nations at our office in Apia, Samoa during the CHOGM 2024. Mr. Lagolago also attended the Commonwealth Enterprise and Investment Council and Sustainable Markets Initiatives CEO-Leaders Event, where he met His Majesty King Charles III. These discussions highlighted the importance of collaboration between the private sector and governments in addressing global challenges such as climate change, biodiversity, and inequality, while advancing the development aspirations of Commonwealth member states. More articles like this one
PACER Plus: Enhancing Trade Facilitation in the Region
ALOFI, Niue – The Pacific Agreement on Closer Economic Relations (PACER) Plus continues to advance its objective of facilitating trade and investment among its 10 member countries. A critical component of this effort is the integration of customs and postal operation systems, a goal furthered by the recent feasibility study on the interface between the United Nations Trade and Development (UNCTAD) ASYCUDA World Systems for Customs and the Universal Postal Union (UPU) Customs Declaration System (CDS) for postal operation in Niue. Currently, the lack of integration between customs and postal systems causes delays and inefficiencies in the processing and clearance of international shipments. These challenges hinder the speed and cost-effectiveness of doing business online, affecting both businesses and consumers in the PACER Plus countries. Niue’s Minister for Finance and Infrastructure, Hon. Crossley Tatui (front row, fifth from right) with the Australian High Commissioner to Niue, H.E. Katy Stuart (front row, fourth from right), the New Zealand High Commissioner to Niue, H.E. Mark Gibb (front row, sixth from right), and Niue’s public and private stakeholders. The UPU CDS is a software application designed to enable the exchange of messages between customs and designated operators, allowing customs formalities to be completed before the arrival of postal items. By facilitating electronic data exchange between customs and postal authorities, the interface significantly streamlines the customs clearance process for e-commerce shipments. This advancement reduces the time and cost of doing business online for both businesses and consumers within PACER Plus member countries thus restoring confidence in the use of postal services for sending and receiving goods, especially e-commerce items. The UNCTAD ASYCUDA World system, widely used for customs management, and the UPU CDS, a standard for postal operations, are anticipated to yield significant benefits when integrated. These benefits include enhanced efficiency, transparency, and speed of cross-border trade in the region. Hon. Crossley Tatui, Niue’s Minister for Finance and Infrastructure, expressed his support for the initiative: “The successful integration of customs and postal systems through the PACER Plus agreement marks a significant step forward in facilitating trade and investment in our region. This initiative not only streamlines processes but also enhances transparency and efficiency, ultimately benefiting our businesses and consumers. We are excited to see the positive impact this will have on Niue.” Mr. Roy Lagolago, Head of the PACER Plus Implementation Unit, highlighted the pioneering nature of this initiative: “The rollout of this interface across the Pacific will make our region the first in the world to adopt such a harmonised system. This achievement is testament to the commitment of PACER Plus to leveraging technology to drive economic growth and improve trade facilitation for all PACER Plus members.” -ENDS- More articles like this one
PACER Plus Initiative Supports Samoa’s Agricultural Export Capacity
The Pacific Agreement on Closer Economic Relations (PACER) Plus Implementation Unit (PPIU) handed over 800 harvest bins to the Samoa Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries today. The handover ceremony marks a pivotal moment in addressing a persistent challenge faced by Samoan farmers – the loss and damage of harvested commodities during transportation to processing and cleaning facilities. This issue has long hindered Samoa’s ability to fully capitalise on its agricultural potential in the global market. Hon. Laaulialemalietoa Leuatea Polataivao Fosi Schmidt (fourth from left), Samoa’s Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries, shakes hands with Mr. Roy Lagolago, Head of PPIU, and H.E. Will Robinson, Australian High Commissioner to Samoa, with Samoan exporters at the handover ceremony. Speaking during the handover, Hon. Laaulialemalietoa Leuatea Polataivao Fosi Schmidt, Samoa’s Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries (MAF), emphasised the significance of this initiative in empowering local farmers and enhancing Samoa’s export capacity. “By addressing the critical issue of postharvest loss and damage, we are empowering our farmers to maximise the export potential of our local produce. In doing so, we are not only protecting the livelihoods of our farmers but also tapping into new opportunities for export growth,” said Hon. Schmidt. “With the addition of the 800 harvest bins today, we now have a total of 980 bins at our disposal, thanks to the initial provision of 180 harvest bins by PACER Plus in August 2022. Additionally, the support provided by PACER Plus extends beyond harvesting bins, encompassing essential biosecurity equipment and IT resources to streamline operations,” added Hon. Schmidt. Mr. Roy Lagolago (left), Head of PPIU, shakes hands with Hon. Laaulialemalietoa Leuatea Polataivao Fosi Schmidt, Samoa’s Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries, during the handover ceremony. The investment from PACER Plus totals AUD130,000 or WST253,190. This demonstrates a dedicated effort to strengthen Samoa’s agricultural infrastructure and improve market access for Samoan produce. The PACER Plus Implementation Unit leads the implementation of the PACER Plus Development and Economic Cooperation Work Programme, jointly funded by the governments of Australia and New Zealand. H.E. Will Robinson, the Australian High Commissioner to Samoa, who was present at the handover, said: “Australia is proud to support initiatives like these that not only strengthen Samoa’s agricultural sector but also foster sustainable economic development.” The handover ceremony was held at MAF’s Atele Packhouse outside Apia, and attended by members of the diplomatic corps, Samoan exporters, and representatives from the agricultural community. -ENDS- 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 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
Bridging the Gender Gap in Agriculture
How Electronic Phytosanitary is Empowering Women in the Pacific The electronic phytosanitary certification system, also known as ePhyto, is a technological innovation that is making a significant contribution to gender equality in trade. This digital platform facilitates the certification of plant and food products by eliminating physical paperwork, reducing processing time, and enabling real-time tracking of certification status. One of the critical ways in which ePhyto supports gender equality is by enabling women to participate more fully in international trade. In many countries, women are traditionally excluded from trade-related activities due to cultural and social barriers. However, ePhyto has made it easier for Pacific women to access and participate in the export market by simplifying the certification process and making it more accessible. ePhyto removes the need for Pacific women to travel to and attend to government offices to complete phytosanitary paperwork each time they export/import. This system reduces time burdens, eliminates need to travel, and allows for online activities to be done at a time convenient to women. This system substantially supports Pacific women in engaging fully in trade. The Pacific Agreement on Closer Economic Relations Plus (PACER Plus) has been a crucial driver of ePhyto’s implementation in the Pacific region. PACER Plus is a unique trade agreement that aims to promote sustainable economic development in the Pacific by improving access to international markets. By supporting the adoption of ePhyto, PACER Plus is assisting member parties to increase their competitiveness in international trade while also promoting gender equality. Since September 2022, PACER Plus Implementation Unit provided training to a total of 123 biosecurity officials and exporters from seven member parties: Cook Islands, Kiribati, Niue, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, and Tuvalu. However, plans to involve stakeholders in Vanuatu, the latest Pacific country to ratify the agreement, have been delayed due to Cyclone Judy and Cyclone Kevin that hit the country this month. Out of all the participants who received training, 42 per cent are women. May Schaaf Vi, Manager Operations for Hihifo Foods, attended the PACER Plus ePhyto Training in Nuku’alofa, Tonga. “In my past experiences, the manual phyto certification generally takes a day or two to process. With ePhyto, processing the certificates will almost be instant which would assist us greatly in exporting and importing goods,” said Ms. Vi. ePhyto is a technological innovation that is having a significant impact on promoting gender equality in the Pacific. By simplifying the certification process and eliminating gender-based barriers to trade, ePhyto is enabling more Pacific women to participate in international trade and access new economic opportunities. More articles like this one
Samoa ready to host labour mobility annual meeting
The sixth Pacific Annual Labour Mobility Meeting (PLMAM) will be hosted by the Government of the Independent State of Samoa and will be held at the Taumeasina Island Resort in Apia on 7-10 November 2022. The PLMAM is provided under the PACER Plus Arrangement on Labour Mobility (ALM) as a mechanism to advance regional labour mobility cooperation. It has been an annual event since 2017, upon the signing of the PACER Plus Agreement and the Arrangement. However, the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic cancelled the PLMAM in 2020 and resolved to a virtual PLMAM in 2021. The 2022 PLMAM will be the first in-person meeting since 2019 and will attract more than 100 participants from around the region to discuss regional labour mobility priorities. The theme of the 2022 PLMAM is “Reinvigorating Labour Mobility Cooperation for Development” and is an opportunity for Pacific labour mobility stakeholders to re-engage, reset and re-commit to advancing effective regional cooperation. This level of cooperation is particularly important as the development impact of labour mobility are mostly contingent on the policies and conditions in both labour receiving and sending countries. Improved cooperation is therefore crucial to ensuring that an enabling labour mobility environment is created to support sustainable and inclusive socio-economic development for the Pacific. The 2022 PLMAM is anticipated to generate stimulating inclusive dialogues on current labour mobility issues and priorities. More importantly, it is anticipated to identify regional solutions and concrete actions for 2023/24. The PLMAM is funded by the Governments of Australia and New Zealand and is facilitated by the PACER Plus Implementation Unit which exists as the Labour Mobility Secretariat that supports the implementation of the PACER Plus Arrangement on Labour Mobility. More articles like this one