President Donald Trump has signed an Executive Order amending the Pacific Remote Islands Marine National Monument, reopening key fishing grounds to U.S.-flagged commercial tuna vessels based in American Samoa.
The decision was announced during a meeting at the White House attended by American Samoa leaders, including Governor Pulaalii Nikolao Pula and Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata. The event coincided with the 125th anniversary of American Samoa’s Deed of Cession.
Governor Pula described the moment as “monumental,” saying the decision restores access to fishing areas that are crucial to the economic survival of the Territory.
“Our tuna industry is our economic backbone,” said Governor Pula. “Today, President Trump has stood with us, ensuring we remain competitive and can keep our cannery running.”
The Monument, created in 2009 and expanded in 2014, had restricted commercial fishing across over a million square miles of federal waters. These closures had a disproportionate impact on the U.S. purse seine fleet operating from American Samoa, threatening thousands of local jobs tied to tuna processing and export.
The amended order allows commercial fishing between 50 and 200 nautical miles within the Pacific Remote Islands area. Supporters argue the change balances environmental stewardship with economic necessity.
Governor Pula thanked the President, Congresswoman Uifa’atali, the Western Pacific Regional Fishery Management Council, and community advocates who pushed for changes in marine policy.
“This is a win for American jobs and food security,” said the Governor. “It reaffirms our place in the American family and proves that when we speak, Washington listens.”
