Cook Islands Sets Regional Benchmark with Uniquely Cook Islands Branding Program
PACER Plus-supported initiative safeguards cultural identity while driving inclusive economic growth RAROTONGA, Cook Islands — The Cook Islands has marked a historic milestone under the PACER Plus Agreement with the co-design of its ground-breaking Branding Program: Uniquely Cook Islands. The initiative — the first of its kind in the Pacific — was validated through a day-long workshop that brought together artisans, entrepreneurs, cultural leaders, and government representatives. Designed to safeguard cultural knowledge and creativity, protect against counterfeiting, and strengthen global recognition, the program ensures that Cook Islands products and services are respected and trusted worldwide. It also fosters investment opportunities, including through the diaspora, particularly in the cultural and creative industries. Repeta Puna, CEO of the Business Trade & Investment Board (BTIB) Through its Certification Mark and Tokens, Uniquely Cook Islands will make authenticity visible, give buyers confidence, and future-proof the culture, customs, and traditions of the islands. It also directly advances the Cook Islands Government’s National Sustainable Development Strategy (NSDS), linking cultural protection with inclusive and sustainable economic growth. “This is not just a certification mark; it is a national commitment to honouring who we are as a people. By designing this program together, with voices from Rarotonga, the Pa Enua, and our diaspora, we are setting a global standard for best practice in cultural integrity and sustainable trade.” Repeta Puna, CEO of the Business Trade & Investment Board (BTIB) The “Branding Program: Uniquely Cook Islands” initiative was validated through a day-long workshop that brought together artisans, entrepreneurs, cultural leaders, and government representatives. The Uniquely Cook Islands Certification Program is built on three pillars: Protect: Safeguard cultural intellectual property and prevent misuse of traditional designs, language, and stories. Participate: Enable small and micro-businesses, particularly artisans and those in the outer islands, to participate in trade on fair and transparent terms. Prosper: Unlock economic value at home and abroad, ensuring the Cook Islands’ reputation for authenticity strengthens in global markets. Highlighting the broader significance of the program, Dr Alisi Kautoke Holani, PACER Plus Trade in Services and Investment Lead, noted: “For artisans and cultural practitioners, the program provides recognition and pricing power that reflects their skill and heritage. For entrepreneurs and innovators, it offers a pathway to sustainable growth while proudly carrying the Cook Islands name. For the Cook Islands diaspora, it establishes a channel to contribute to the homeland’s cultural and economic advancement.” With strong interest already expressed by local businesses and cultural leaders, the program is now entering its final co-design stages before launch. The Cook Islands is poised to set an inspiring regional and global benchmark in protecting and promoting cultural identity through trade. -ENDS- More articles like this one
Six Niuean entrepreneurs receive boost for e-commerce growth
ALOFI, Niue – The Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat (PIFS), in partnership with the PACER Plus Implementation Unit (PPIU), is pleased to announce the selection of six Niuean small businesses to receive e-commerce coaching and grant support valued at a total of AU$45,000. The program’s official launch was marked by a virtual kickoff meeting on 3 July 2025 (Niue time), kicking off Phase 2 of the PIFS E-Biz Plus Program in Niue. PIFS Director of Programmes and Initiatives, Mr Zarak Khan highlighted, “This phase builds on last year’s foundation, where we equipped businesses with essential e-commerce tools and training. We’re now investing in six promising Niuean entrepreneurs to help accelerate their growth online, supporting the vision of the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent and the Pacific Regional E-commerce Strategy and Roadmap.” Niue Vanilla International, a privately owned Niuean family business, is one of six businesses to receive e-commerce coaching and grant support. One of the selected businesses is Niue Organic Farmers Associations (NIOFA). “At NIOFA, we’re passionate about organic farming and sharing sustainable practices with our community, especially the next generation. Our goal is to educate, inspire, and open pathways to overseas markets through storytelling and digital outreach.” Jamal Talagi, Head of NIOFA said, “We’re truly grateful for this opportunity, which will help us strengthen our message, grow our visibility, and promote Niue’s unique values to the world.” Apart from NIOFA, the selected businesses represent a diverse and dynamic cross-section of Niue’s economy: Niue Vanilla International – A small family business producing quality Niue vanilla, and seeking to expand reach and improve access for overseas customers through website upgrade and establishing a mirror site, to help with overseas payments and better promote Niue. Mrs Sena’s Crafts – A creator of authentic Niuean handicrafts like hats, earrings and mats. Through the program, the business plans to rebrand to build a legacy, on that shares the story of their journey. Additionally, the businesses seek to obtain strategic marketing support capitalising on its social media presence. Ebony Carvings – A maker of handcrafted wood jewellery and artistic carvings, with a goal to grow the business and expand its reach in the handicraft sector through its social media platforms. Lupe Niue – Lupe Niue is planning to launch an online store to make products like banana chips more accessible and boost direct sales to customers. Bohnz Infotech – An emerging provider of electronics and IT services, planning to formally its services, through establishing a retail outlet and online platforms, and implementing strategic marketing strategies. PPIU provided AU$100,000 to support Phase 2 of the PIFS E-Biz Plus program, involving e-commerce coaching and grant scheme in Niue. This project builds on previous joint efforts between PPIU and PIFS to support Pacific businesses in the digital economy, following the successful rollout of Phase 1 of the PIFS E-Biz Plus program in Vanuatu, Tonga, and Niue in 2024, involving the development of e-commerce business toolkits and training workshops. “At the heart of PACER Plus is a commitment to inclusive economic growth across the Pacific,” said Dr. Alisi Holani, Trade in Services and Investment Adviser and Labour Mobility Specialist. “We’re proud to support Niue’s small businesses in embracing digital tools that allow them to compete beyond their shores, reduce trade costs, and improve profitability.” PACER Plus, a unique regional trade agreement between Niue, seven Pacific Island countries, Australia, and New Zealand, was designed to drive economic growth and improve the livelihoods of Pacific peoples. For Niue, PACER Plus represents access to a broader market, targeted development assistance, and a platform for economic resilience in an increasingly connected world. Through this next phase of the PIFS E-Biz Plus, these six MSMEs will receive personalised coaching and financial assistance to help them grow their businesses and tap into new opportunities in the digital economy. -ENDS- More articles like this one
PACER Plus Joint Committee Charts Strategic Path Forward for Pacific Trade and Development
HONIARA, Solomon Islands – The Eighth Meeting of the PACER Plus Joint Committee concluded on Tuesday 6 May 2025 in Honiara, Solomon Islands, bringing together senior government officials from Australia, Cook Islands, Kiribati, New Zealand, Niue, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu, and Vanuatu. Chaired by Ambassador Collin Beck, Permanent Secretary of the Solomon Islands Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade, the two-day meeting provided a crucial platform for Parties to review progress, reimagine the future of PACER Plus, and strengthen regional economic integration. Senior government officials from the ten PACER Plus Parties gathered in Honiara, Solomon Islands for the Eighth PACER Plus Joint Committee Meeting. Ambassador Beck underscored the significance of PACER Plus in navigating today’s uncertain global trade environment. “PACER Plus was envisioned as a pathway toward deepening economic integration across the Blue Pacific Continent by creating a predictable, rules-based trade environment and unlocking targeted development assistance through the PACER Plus Development and Economic Cooperation (DEC) Work Programme. This meeting was an opportunity to reflect on the past, reimagine the Agreement’s next phase, and ensure it delivers meaningful impact for our people.” Ambassador Collin Beck, Permanent Secretary of the Solomon Islands Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade The DEC Work Programme, funded by Australia and New Zealand, is a cornerstone of PACER Plus implementation, designed to support Pacific Island countries in building trade capacity, strengthening industries, and overcoming barriers to economic growth. It provides targeted assistance in areas such as export development, trade facilitation, and skills training, ensuring that Pacific Parties can fully benefit from regional and global trade opportunities. Ms. Natalia Patternot, Director, Department of External Trade with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade in Solomon Islands speaks at the PACER Plus Joint Committee Meeting. The meeting approved high-level strategic priorities for the next DEC Work Programme cycle (2025-2030) commencing the work towards confirming arrangements required for continuation of the DEC Work Programme beyond 2025. Discussions emphasised the need for a sharper focus on export development, value chain strengthening, reducing shipping and logistics costs, and targeted skills development. The meeting also highlighted the importance of private sector engagement, digital trade as a key economic driver, and the alignment of strategic priorities with measurable 2030 targets under the Monitoring, Evaluation, Learning and Adaptation (MELA) Framework. Parties reaffirmed PACER Plus as a vital mechanism for regional economic integration, in line with the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent. Expanding membership remains a key priority, with commitments to advocate for new members to join the Agreement. Mr. Alan Armistead, Director of International and Trade Affairs Division with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Immigration Cook Islands speaks at the PACER Plus Joint Committee Meeting. Australia and New Zealand provided updates on the current internal governance reviews required to confirm resourcing for the next DEC Work Programme (2025-2030). Ambassador Beck expressed gratitude on behalf of all Parties: “We deeply appreciate the ongoing commitment of Australia and New Zealand to PACER Plus, both through their current funding and their expressed support for the next phase. Their partnership is instrumental in ensuring Pacific nations can harness trade for sustainable development.” The Joint Committee reaffirmed Parties’ commitment to the rules-based multilateral trading system, with the World Trade Organisation at its core. A joint statement was adopted as follows: “We affirm our commitment to a transparent, non-discriminatory, and open rules-based multilateral trading system which provides certainty and predictability for businesses, builds trust and confidence among consumers, and underpins the growth of international trade and development. In the face of mounting challenges, including disruptions in global supply chains, rising protectionism and climate change, our collective commitment to these principles and the maintenance of trade openness is more crucial than ever,” the statement read. Parties also pledged to uphold a special and differential treatment for Small Island Developing States, ensuring tailored support to safeguard food security, livelihoods, and effective participation in global trade. The outcomes of this meeting will guide the next phase of PACER Plus, ensuring it remains responsive to the needs of the Pacific and delivers tangible benefits for the region. To read the full Eighth PACER Plus Joint Committee Outcome Summary, please click here. -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
Strengthening Digital Trade Capabilities at Regional Workshop
SUVA, Fiji – The inaugural Pacific Regional Digital Trade Workshop kicked off today in Suva, Fiji, bringing together public and private sector stakeholders from Fiji and Pacific PACER Plus countries. Workshops such as this demonstrates the continued commitment of the Australian Government and the Pacific Agreement on Closer Economic Relations Plus (PACER Plus) to support and strengthen the skills and capacity of Pacific Island Countries (PICs) on trade in services, digital trade and e-commerce. The two-day workshop brings together government officials from the eight Pacific PACER Plus countries such as Cook Islands, Kiribati, Niue, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu, and Vanuatu as well as Fiji. With 60 percent of all exports in the region linked to the services sector, services play a key role in the Pacific’s economic growth and development. The two-day workshop aims to support PICs to engage effectively in the fast-evolving digital trade space, understand digital trade and e-commerce provisions, and support countries’ capacity to negotiate and implement these provisions in trade agreements. In the margins of the workshop, a two-day proposal clinic will be delivered to help PACER Plus countries develop bankable project proposals that align with regional and international trade commitments and boost trade in services, e-commerce, and investment in the region. Mr. Shaheen Ali (left), Permanent Secretary to Fiji’s Ministry of Trade, Co-operatives, SMEs and Communications and Mr. Andrew Shepherd, Australian Deputy High Commissioner to Fiji at the .Pacific Regional Digital Trade Workshop. Mr. Shaheen Ali, Permanent Secretary to Fiji’s Ministry of Trade, Co-operatives, SMEs and Communications, opened the workshop, stating: “Workshops and training programmes like these are invaluable in building our capacities and equipping us with the tools needed to better understand the highly technical provisions related to digital trade. As we deepen our knowledge and expertise, we position ourselves to negotiate future agreements with provisions that not only support and facilitate digital trade but also align with our regional interests,” said Mr. Ali. Mr. Andrew Shepherd, Australian Deputy High Commissioner to Fiji, also spoke to the importance of the initiative, saying: “The workshop will continue our trajectory of building a community of practice and peer to peer learning in the Pacific. Also, with the relevant information and a community of practitioners at our fingertips, the world of e-commerce and digital trade is smaller than we think.” -ENDS- More articles like this one
Enhancing Investment Promotion Capacities in the Pacific
APIA, Samoa – The Pacific Agreement on Closer Economic Relations (PACER) Plus continues to pave a pathway forward on inclusive and sustainable investment across its member countries. In line with this vision, the PACER Plus Implementation Unit (PPIU) successfully delivered a Pacific Regional Investment Promotion Toolkit Workshop in Apia, Samoa from 15-19 April 2024. Participants of the five-day workshop included public and private sector officials from Cook Islands, Kiribati, Niue, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu, and Vanuatu. The workshop aimed to strengthen countries’ capacities in attracting and retaining investments, fostering collaborative effort, and achieving results for PACER Plus Pacific members. Recognising the multifaceted nature of investment promotion, the workshop addressed diverse needs extending beyond traditional aftercare services. Bilateral consultations highlighted the necessity for a comprehensive toolkit covering various stages of the investment cycle, from strategy formulation to promotional material development. https://youtu.be/7AHQ39RrLXQ Participants from Samoa and Tonga spoke to the value of the workshop. Participants included public and private sector officials from Cook Islands, Kiribati, Niue, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu, and Vanuatu. The five-day workshop fostered interactive learning, featuring practical exercises, case studies, and simulations. CEO of the Niue Chamber of Commerce, Catherine Etuata Papani, raises a point while participants from Samoa and Niue look on. Reflecting on the workshop, Tauatia Tuimauga, Principal Investment Promotion Officer at Samoa’s Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Labour, underscored its practical value. “The workshop provided invaluable insights into enhancing Samoa’s attractiveness to potential investors,” said Ms. Tuimauga. Raymond Vuti, CEO of Vanuatu Foreign Investment Promotion Agency, echoed similar sentiments, expressing optimism about improving investor confidence and stimulating investment in Vanuatu. -END- More articles like this one
PACER Plus Parties Emphasise Regional Economic Integration at the 2023 Forum Trade Ministers Meeting
SUVA, Fiji – The 2023 Forum Trade Ministers Meeting (FTMM) convened on 6 October 2023 in Suva, Fiji where delegates engaged in discussions on key priorities that will shape the future of trade and investment in the region. (L-R) Ms. Sovaia Marawa, Melaneasian Spearhead Group Secretariat; Mr. Esala Nayasi, Pacific Islands Forum’s Deputy Secretary General; Mrs. Laisiana Tugaga, PPIU’s Operations and Secretariat Manager; H.E. Ambassador Mere Falemaka, Permanent Delegation of the Pacific Islands Forum to the United Nations, World Trade Organisation. The meeting was chaired by the Cook Islands, and attended by PACER Plus Parties Australia, Cook Islands, Kiribati, New Zealand, Niue, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu, and Vanuatu as well as the Federated States of Micronesia, Fiji, French Polynesia, Nauru, New Caledonia, Palau, Papua New Guinea, and Marshall Islands. Key priorities discussed during the meeting included the current Regional Trade and Investment Landscape, the implementation of the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent, the Pacific Aid for Trade Strategy, private sector development priorities, and labour mobility. Representatives from the Pacific Agreement on Closer Economic Relations Plus (PACER Plus) Parties emphasised the pivotal role of PACER Plus as a mechanism for regional economic integration. The discussions underscored the commitment to principles of regionalism and sustainable socio-economic development, highlighting the importance of collaboration among Pacific nations. The 2023 FTMM recognised the need for alignment across regional frameworks to increase efficiency gains and enhance development returns to member countries. Participants acknowledged the significance of fostering cooperation and solidarity in addressing shared challenges and pursing common goals for the Pacific. Mrs. Laisiana Tugaga, Operations and Secretariat Manager of the PACER Plus Implementation Unit (PPIU) stated, “The 2023 FTMM provided a valuable platform for PACER Plus Parties to strengthen their commitment to regional economic integration. The discussions reflected a shared vision for the sustainable development of the Pacific, and the PACER Plus Implementation Unit is eager to work collaboratively with the Pacific Islands Forum on common initiatives for the region.” -END- More articles like this one
PACER Plus Trade in Services and Investment Clinic Boosts Vanuatu’s Capacity for Economic Development
PORT VILA, Vanuatu – Services play a pivotal role in driving trade integration and fostering economic development in the Pacific, offering unique opportunities for growth. Recognising the potential, the PACER Plus Implementation Unit (PPIU) conducted a Trade in Services and Investment Proposal Clinic in Port Vila, Vanuatu from 16-17 November 2023. The clinic aimed to address the identified capacity gap in Vanuatu, providing crucial support to understand their obligations and maximise the benefits of trade in services and investment. The PACER Plus Trade in Services and Investment Proposal Clinic aimed to address the identified capacity gap in Vanuatu, providing crucial support to understand their obligations and maximise the benefits of trade in services and investment. Preliminary assessments by the PPIU revealed the need for further capacity development to expedite the implementation of the PACER Plus Trade in Services and Investment Chapter. To bridge this gap, the Trade in Services and Investment Proposal Clinic built on the success of the previous clinic held in Apia, Samoa, in May. The Port Vila clinic had a broader focus, facilitating the development of bankable, high-quality, demand-driven project proposals on priority issues at national level. The clinic welcomed Vanuatu officials representing various relevant agencies responsible for trade in services policy, negotiation, and implementation of services commitments. The sessions focused on the critical need to strengthen Vanuatu’s capacity within the framework of PACER Plus. This involved developing strategic, practical, and attainable activity proposals that align with both national priorities and the obligations outlined in PACER Plus Services. Ms. Olivia Phongkham, PPIU Trade in Services and Investment Adviser, highlighted the significances of the initiative: “Services are key to unlocking the full potential of trade and economic development in the Pacific. The Trade in Services and Investment Proposal Clinic exemplifies our commitment to empowering Vanuatu and other PACER Plus parties with the knowledge and skills to enhance trade in services and investment for sustainable growth.” The PACER Plus Trade in Services and Investment Proposal Clinic in Port Vila marked a crucial step forward for Vanuatu in realising the full potential of the PACER Plus agreement. -END- More articles like this one
PACER Plus Empowers Pacific Economies Through E-Commerce Initiatives
Ms. Olivia Phongkham, the Trade in Services and Investment Adviser with the PACER Plus Implementation Unit (PPIU), shared insights on PACER Plus and its e-commerce initiatives at the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) E-Commerce Week in Geneva, Switzerland. Ms. Phongkham’s presentation emphasised the transformative potential of e-commerce, digital trade, and the broader digital economy in accelerating economic recovery, fostering resilience, and promoting inclusive development in Pacific Island Countries. The COVID-19 pandemic has underscored the pivotal role of technology in enabling businesses to sustain trade operations. E-commerce is a vital tool for businesses, enabling them to surmount physical and economic challenges, foster diversification in goods and services, and enhance market access. Digital and ICT technologies empower micro-, small and medium-sized enterprises and women entrepreneurs to connect with global customers, improve communication within the global and regional value chains, access government e-services, information, and online business training. PPIU’s Trade in Services and Investment Adviser, Ms. Olivia Phongkham (far right), joins other partners on a panel to speak on “Enhancing the Transition from Offline to Online for Small Businesses in the Pacific” at the UNCTAD E-Commerce Week in Geneva. Despite its immense potential, Pacific Island Countries encounter challenges such as weak infrastructure, limited inclusive access to ICT and finance, policy and regulatory gaps, skills shortages, and inefficient trade facilitation. The PACER Plus AUD$25 million Development and Economic Cooperation (DEC) work program aims to address these constraints and bolster regional economic integration and connectivity. The PACER Plus Implementation Unit is actively engaged in collaborative efforts with partner governments, private sectors, and development partners to enhance capacity in the e-commerce sphere. The PACER Plus E-Commerce activities for the financial year 2022-23 include: Cook Islands: Conducted an e-commerce regulatory gap analysis in 2022 and launched the E-Commerce Acceleration Work Plan in September 2023. Kiribati: Validated Kiribati’s E-Commerce Policy in January 2023 through a national consultation involving 47 participants. Samoa: Launched Samoa’s National E-Commerce Strategy in September 2023 in the islands of Upolu and Savai’i. Tuvalu: Undertook an assessment and options analysis for expanding the payment ecosystem for e-commerce in Tuvalu in May 2023. Regional: Collaborated with the Asian Development Bank on a Regional Workshop on Cross Border E-Commerce in in September 2022. Regional: Supported the development and rollout of E-Commerce Business Toolkits to strengthen the start-up ecosystem for MSMEs E-Commerce business ventures in Niue, Tonga, Tuvalu, and Vanuatu in November 2023. E-commerce and digital trade are pivotal areas for PACER Plus countries to collaborate with regional and global development partners, fostering productivity, entrepreneurship, innovation, job creation, and access to new markets. PACER Plus is committed to supporting stable, secure, and prosperous Pacific economies through deeper regional economic integration, support diversification and access to new trade opportunities. -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