AUSTRALIA BOOSTS SAMOA TOURISM WITH WST$1.8 MILLION MARKETING GRANT
STA and the Australian Government representatives (Photo: Supplied)
In a significant move aimed at bolstering Samoa's tourism industry, the Australian Government has announced a generous grant of WST$1.8 million to the Samoa Tourism Authority (STA) for marketing purposes. This support comes as a timely boost for Samoa's tourism sector, which is crucial for the nation's economic growth and recovery.
The grant, facilitated through Australia's Tautai Partnership with the Samoan Government, underscores a commitment to fostering mutual prosperity between the two nations. His Excellency Mr Will Robinson, Australia’s High Commissioner to Samoa, expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration, emphasizing its potential to strengthen the bond between the peoples of Australia and Samoa.
The focus of the grant is to enhance Samoa's tourism marketing efforts, particularly targeting visitors from Australia. With travel restrictions easing and borders reopening, there is a growing opportunity to attract tourists from Australia, a key market for Samoa. High Commissioner Robinson highlighted Australia's belief in the importance of bolstering Samoa's tourism industry not only for economic benefits but also for fostering stronger bilateral relations.
Tauiliili Alise Stunnenberg, STA’s Board Chair, hailed the grant as a crucial support mechanism for Samoa's tourism recovery. Noting the recent growth in visitor numbers from Australia following the reopening of borders, Tauiliili expressed optimism about the future growth trajectory of Samoa's tourism industry. She emphasized the indispensable role of partnerships in driving this growth and extended heartfelt gratitude to the people and Government of Australia for their generous support.
Toleafoa Pativaine Petaia-Tevita, CEO of STA, underscored the significance of the grant as a symbol of the commitment between the two governments to the development of tourism in Samoa. Recognizing tourism as a vital source of income and employment for Samoa, the grant aligns with Australia's broader efforts to support Samoa's aspirations for safe, secure, and prosperous communities.
As Samoa continues to navigate the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the Australian Government's support serves as a beacon of hope for the nation's tourism industry. The grant not only provides immediate assistance but also lays the groundwork for long-term sustainability and growth in Samoa's tourism sector. With collaborative efforts and strategic investments, Samoa is poised to emerge stronger and more resilient in the global tourism landscape.