Quick Facts

Capital: Apia
Land:2934 sq km - 5 islands
EEZ: 120000 sq km
Population: 181,000 (approx. for 2000)
Languages: English, Samoan
Currency: Tala
Economy: Agriculture, fisheries, manufacturing and tourism

Background Information
Samoa (formerly Western Samoa) consists of two main islands, Upolu and Savaii with several smaller adjacent islands. The islands are volcanic, dominated by rugged mountain ranges generally with a four to five kilometre 'skirt' of gently sloping fertile land.

The Government of Samoa actively encourages foreign investment and is committed to industrial development, recognising that foreign capital, technology and management can substantially contribute to Samoa's economic development.

The Government has streamlined legislation and procedures to encourage the establishment and expansion of enterprises capable of providing increased employment opportunities and contribute substantially to widening the economic base of the country.

Manufacturing, tourism and services are seen by the Government as the three most important sectors. The Government has undergone major reforms and provided infrastructural facilities to encourage both local and foreign investors in these sectors.


Contacts for further information:

Department of Trade, Commerce & Industries
Attn: The Trade & Investment Promotion Unit
PO Box 862
Apia
SAMOA
Tel: (685) 20471
Fax: (685) 21646
Email: tipu@samoa.gov.ws

Consulate General of Samoa
Attn: Trade Commissioner, Mr Va'atu'itu'i Apete Meredith
Samoa House, 283 Karangahape Road
PO Box 68-147, Newtown
AUCKLAND
Tel: (649) 3031012
Fax: (649) 3021168
Email: samoa@tradeconsulate.co.nz

For up to date information on Samoa, please visit the NZ Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade's website link here.