Samoa removed from the European Union Blacklist

By Jeannie Penehuro/

Apia, SAMOA – 20 February 2026 – Samoa has been officially taken off the European Union’s blacklist of non-cooperative tax jurisdictions following a decision by the Council of the European Union in its meeting in Brussels this week.

The move marks a significant turning point for Samoa’s financial services sector and reflects years of legislative reform and policy upgrades aimed at meeting global tax transparency and governance standards.

Samoa’s name entered the EU blacklist in 2017.

Since then, the Government has undertaken extensive changes to its tax and regulatory systems to align with international best practices and reinforce the country’s reputation as a credible offshore financial centre.

A major component of these reforms was the removal of tax exemptions previously available to international companies and strengthened oversight of the sector.

The Samoa International Finance Authority (SIFA) described the EU’s decision as a validation of Samoa’s sustained reform efforts.

According to the statement by SIFA, this outcome demonstrates Samoa’s unwavering commitment to operating within internationally recognised standards of transparency and accountability.

“We have worked diligently to ensure our legal framework supports responsible international business while safeguarding our economic interests.”

SIFA Chief Executive Officer, Tuifaasisina Sieni Tualega Voorwinden said that the reform programme was carried out through consultation with local industry stakeholders and through ongoing dialogue with European counterparts and the collaborative approach was the key to achieving compliance with EU requirements.

The removal of Samoa from the blacklist is expected to improve investor confidence and facilitate stronger commercial and diplomatic ties with European partners. It also positions Samoa more favourably within the global financial system.

The removal was made possible with the passing of the Tax Exemption for International Companies Amendment Bill by Samoa’s parliament last December.

SIFA emphasised that the country remains focused on maintaining high regulatory standards.

“Samoa will continue to promote a stable, well-regulated, and transparent financial services environment that supports sustainable growth and long-term resilience,” she said.

With the blacklist designation lifted, Samoa now looks ahead to deepening international partnerships and further strengthening its financial services industry.