Minister Explains Expanded Documentation for Business Licenses

Apia, Samoa – 21 November 2025: The Minister of Revenue today responded to concerns raised by members of the business community about the number of requirements involved in applying for and renewing business licenses.

The Minister, Pauga Talalelei Te’omatavu’i Pauga said he and the Ministry acknowledge the feedback from the business community and reaffirm their understanding that compliance requirements can sometimes feel complex and be a cost burden.

These requirements, however, are not arbitrary. They are guided by the Business Licences Act 1998, the Business Licence Regulations 2012, and the Business Licence Amendment Regulations 2022.”

The Minister explained that the expanded documentation now required, such as beneficial ownership information, sector-specific certificates, and land tenure verification – is designed to protect both businesses and Samoa’s economy by increasing transparency, reducing fraud, and ensuring the safety and legitimacy of all business activities.

These changes bring Samoa into alignment with international best practices, particularly in the areas of beneficial ownership, transparency and anti-money laundering standards.

Simplifying the Process for Businesses
The Ministry is actively working to make compliance easier and swifter for business operators.

Initiatives include:
• Updated and simplified application and renewal forms
• A clear checklist of required documents published online and at Ministry counters
• Mobile help desks and community outreach to assist businesses in preparing applications
• Online submission options to reduce wait times at counters
• Multilingual (English and Samoan) public information materials and short animated videos explaining the requirements

The Ministry is also allowing more extended time for renewal to avoid last minute rush and overcrowded of customers in only two months.

In doing this, we allow earlier renewal from November 2025 to January 2026, but business license certificates will only be available from December 2025 to January 2026 due to system set up.

The Ministry’s goal is not to create barriers, but to help businesses succeed while meeting their legal obligations.  All license holders are urged to take advantage of the Ministry’s information sessions, online tools and dedicated support channels in preparation for the upcoming 2026 renewal period.

The Minister concluded by inviting continued dialogue with the private sector to further improve the business licensing system, while reaffirming the Government’s commitment to a fair and transparent process.