The Samoa Trust Estates Corporation Board met with the Prime Minister on 21 November 2025 to discuss the Government’s plan to restructure STEC and redirect national efforts toward export growth and commercial agriculture.
The Prime Minister confirmed that the Government will wind up the old STEC structure, open STEC lands for commercial farming, and establish the Samoa Export Authority as the new national institution responsible for export development. The STEC Board agreed with the direction and confirmed its support for a unified transition with the current SEA Board.
The Board is chaired by Tagaloa Eddie Wilson, an exporter and agricultural manufacturer with more than three decades of industry experience. Other members include legal advisor Tuisa, agricultural technical advisor Asuao, and Aualiitia, who represents primary producers through a recognised farmers’ association.
Acting CEO Natasha Kolose and Acting ACEO Finance Folola Crichton are leading the management side of the transition. Both have been involved in the corporation’s land management and planning work since 2023.
The meeting reaffirmed that the shift from STEC to SEA aligns with Government priorities including strengthening the District Development Program, expanding commercial farming on STEC lands, improving Samoa’s trade balance, and ensuring agriculture can support tourism, aviation, and local processing industries. The Board also acknowledged the importance of reliable water and power infrastructure for commercial agriculture.
The STEC Board stated its confidence in the transition to SEA, noting that a modern, single export institution will support long-term economic development and create a clearer pathway for commercial farming and value-added production.
The Board reiterated its commitment to manage the transition professionally, work with Government agencies and districts, and mobilise STEC lands for productive use as Samoa moves toward an export-driven economy.
Article is based on a Press Release by the Samoa Trust Estate Corporation (STEC).
