The Embassy of the Independent State of Samoa in collaboration with the Pacific Island Centre (PIC) in Japan hosted the 2021 Samoa Online Seminar. The aim of the event was to continue PIC and Samoa Embassy’s work in promotion of trade, investment and tourism opportunities in Japan. The seminar was officially opened by H.E. Faalavaau Perina SILA-TUALAULELEI, Ambassador of Samoa to Japan. The Ambassador highlighted the importance of exploring innovative ways to continue to do business using online platforms to connect Samoan and Japanese businesses given the challenges of COVID-19. She said”
“The nature of challenges due to COVID-19 also prompts an innovative outlook to promoting tourism, trade and investment between Samoa and Japan. Harnessing available technology to enable connectivity and conducting business online is perhaps an area we can strengthen.”
Participants from over 70 Japanese companies participated in the online seminar. They were able to hear from Samoan representatives from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade and Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Labour who shared information on trade and investment climate, challenges and opportunities for Japanese businesses to connect and create partnerships with local Samoan businesses.
Local exporters also participated and shared information on their products. Representatives included, Wilex Koko (cocoa and nonu products); Vaoala Vanilla (vanilla bean and related products) and PHARMA Plus (taro).