PACER Plus Delivers Over $89,000 In Farming Equipment To Boost Agriculture Sector

Samoan farmers received a major boost today with the official handover of more than WST$89,000 (AU$50,000) worth of farming and processing equipment to the Samoa Farmers Association (SFA), thanks to support from the Pacific Agreement on Closer Economic Relations (PACER) Plus.

The new equipment – ranging from coffee bean roasters and electric winnowers to taro chippers, multi-use grinders, tillers, ground drillers, brushcutters and chainsaws – is part of the broader project aimed at empowering Samoa’s farming community through increased productivity, improved livelihoods, and stronger market linkages.

SFA, which represents more than 1,000 farmers across Samoa – including women’s groups, church-based farming collectives, and youth enterprises – will roll out this support through its Empowering Agriculture Project. The project focuses on equipping farmers with the tools they need to improve both the quantity and quality of their produce, enabling greater access to domestic, regional, and international markets.

Speaking at the handover ceremony, the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries, Hon. Niuava Eti Malolo, acknowledged the significance of the initiative, highlighting its alignment with Samoa’s broader trade and development aspirations.

“For Samoa, the PACER Plus Agreement opens doors to new avenues in trade and investment. It aids in refining our systems and standards, enabling more of our local products to meet international market requirements. This is especially significant for agriculture – a sector that remains the backbone of our economy and a vital source of income for many Samoan families,” said Hon. Malolo.

Mr. Roy Lagolago, Head of the PACER Plus Implementation Unit (PPIU), said the initiative aligns with PACER Plus’s development goals of enabling Pacific farmers and small businesses to participate more effectively in trade.

“PACER Plus was designed with a vision of driving economic growth and improving the livelihoods of people in the Pacific Island nations,” said Mr. Lagolago. “Through fostering an environment conducive to trade and investment, it enhances regional cooperation and broadens our access to international markets. Today’s handover is a reflection of that mission in action.”

PACER Plus supported the project through its Development and Economic Cooperation (DEC) Work Programme, funded by the Australian and New Zealand governments, which assists Pacific Island countries in implementing the PACER Plus Agreement and unlocking trade-related development benefits.

SFA President Mr. Sala Sagato Tuiafiso expressed his appreciation for the support and said it will have a lasting impact on the agricultural sector.

“Our farmers are the backbone of Samoa’s economy, and this equipment is timely,” said Mr. Sagato. “It will improve how we process, preserve, and present our crops for market. We are especially proud that this support will reach those who need it most – women, youth, and rural farmers – ensuring no one is left behind.”

The SFA will work closely with the PPIU to monitor the use and impact of the equipment, supported by a quarterly reporting process and follow-up surveys with farmers and stakeholders. This collaborative approach will help measure tangible outcomes such as increased productivity, improved quality, and access to new markets.

The Empowering Agriculture Project also includes plans for future capacity building initiatives, strengthening farmers’ knowledge in sustainable farming practices, post-harvest handling, and business development.

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