Samoa welcomes Western & Central Pacific Fisheries Commission

By Lagi Keresoma/

“Ensuring the long-term sustainability of highly migratory fish stock in the region through science-based management and international cooperation.” – Western & Central Pacific Fisheries Commission.

Apia, SAMOA – 11 August 2026: The Prime Minister and Cabinet welcomed delegates from 26 countries participating in the Western & Central Pacific Fisheries Commission (WCPFC) Scientific Committee Session, in a ceremonial welcome Ava Ceremony at the EFKS Hall yesterday afternoon.

Samoa through the Ministry of Agriculture & Fisheries (MAF) is hosting WCPFC where member countries are expected to engage in an in-depth and deliberations over fisheries issues of concern to the region.

Also attending are representatives of non-members and territories as observers.

At the Ava Ceremony, Laauli spoke of the importance of the meeting and acknowledged WCPFC initiative to host the meeting in Samoa.

He also touched on the need to preserve and secure the Blue Pacific Ocean and needs all member countries to work together.

The Prime Minister, Cabinet Ministers and delegates attending the WCPFC in Samoa.

The meeting is attended by a number of high-ranking scientists from around the world who will share not only scientific data but focus discussions on:

• Overview of Western and Central Pacific Ocean fisheries,
• WCPFC scientific data
• Fisheries Stock assessment
• Regional Observer Programme.
• Development of WCPFC harvest strategy framework and models and methods of harvesting various kinds of fish.

The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the MAF Afamasaga Taimalietane Matatumua said the outcomes of last week’s fisheries week-long meeting for Samoa will be tendered for discussion at the meeting.

The WCPFC meeting is for two weeks.

The Ministry of Agriculture & Fisheries performing the ceremonial welcome Ava for the delegates of the Western & Central Pacific Fisheries Commission.