Taumeasina Island Resort, Apia – The Trade, Commerce, and Manufacturing Sector, alongside the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Labour (MCIL), has officially launched the Trade, Commerce & Manufacturing Sector Plan (TCMSP) for the years 2024/25 to 2028/29, as well as the Ministry’s Corporate Plan for the same period.
The TCMSP 2024/25 – 2028/29 aims to foster “sustainable production, trade, commerce, and manufacturing for growth and a resilient and vibrant economy,” with the overarching goal of “cultivating the full potential of trade, commerce, and manufacturing for the benefit of all.” This plan aligns with Samoa’s national development vision and objectives as set forth in the government’s Pathway for the Development of Samoa (PDS). The TCMSP leads the implementation of Key Priority Area 9 of the PDS, focusing on “Business Innovation and Growth,” with aims to enhance efficiency, boost income and employment, generate potential foreign exchange earnings, and expand business opportunities. This plan marks the third iteration, building on the progress of previous sector plans through a comprehensive review of relevant literature and insights from stakeholder consultations.
To achieve its long-term vision and objectives, the TCMSP adopts six strategic outcomes, each supported by a series of targeted strategies and proposed actions aimed at advancing the sector’s development:
- Improve productivity, manufacturing, and trade activities.
- Enhance exports and market access.
- Increase sustainable business development and employment generation.
- Advance the efficacy of sector infrastructure.
- Foster resilience and recovery in response to shocks and stressors.
- Strengthen an enabling environment for sector development.
The Ministry’s Corporate Plan 2024/25 – 2028/29 outlines strategic actions and resource needs, ensuring the Ministry’s pivotal role in Samoa’s socio-economic development, as envisioned in the Government’s PDS and the TCMSP. The Corporate Plan will provide strategic direction for the Ministry over the next five years, driven by the vision of promoting “a productive economy that provides sustainable opportunities for Samoa’s people.”
In his keynote address, the Minister for Trade, Commerce, Industry, and Labour, Honourable Leota Laki Lamositele Sio, highlighted the importance of cooperation and collective efforts in fostering a prosperous and resilient Samoa, where trade, commerce, and manufacturing can flourish. Afioga Patele Ioane Ono had the distinguished honour of blessing and cutting the ribbon for this significant milestone.
The Trade, Commerce, and Manufacturing Sector, along with the Ministry, extends profound gratitude to all stakeholders and development partners for their invaluable support and contributions. Special acknowledgment goes to the Government of New Zealand for its ongoing support, which has been instrumental in the finalisation and completion of the TCMSP.
Launched Date: 21 June 2024
Venue: Taumeasina Resort
