To’oto’oleaava Mark Wendt has returned to the Samoa Beach Resort as General Manager, bringing extensive experience across hospitality, aviation, and executive leadership. His background includes hotel operations, people management, and service excellence, positioning the resort for renewed operational focus and long-term sustainability.

Samoa welcomed the MS Costa Delizioza, the first cruise ship to call into Samoa this year, marking a pivotal moment for the country's tourism industry and economy. Carrying a total of 2,812 passengers and crew, the arrival created valuable opportunities for local businesses, tour operators, and communities to engage with visitors and showcase Samoa’s natural beauty, culture, and hospitality — reinforcing the destination’s appeal within the regional cruise market.

Samoa will mark its 64th Independence Day with a vibrant three-day national programme, as announced by the Honourable Prime Minister, Laaulialemalietoa Fosi Schmidt. Celebrated annually on the 1st June, the occasion commemorates Samoa’s National Day and reflects on the country’s journey, identity, and enduring pride as an independent nation.

Samoa stepped into the global spotlight by hosting the Kings Baton Relay last month, marking an important international event for the very first time. This milestone not only represented a significant moment but also showcased Samoa’s cultural richness and commitment to sustainability. As a proud partner of this event, Samoa Tourism Authority provided its support and amplified Samoa's message of stewardship for the planet.

Samoa is strengthening its national biosecurity system with the installation of a new incinerator within Biosecurity Samoa, scheduled for installation in mid-February 2026 and commissioning in March 2026. This important investment will enhance Samoa’s ability to manage biosecurity risks linked to international travel, trade, and waste disposal, while also supporting the continued growth of tourism and cruise operations.

The Samoa Business Hub has launched an innovative financial assistance initiative funded by the Government, offering support for start-ups and micro businesses. The was unveiled during a two-day Awareness Program held at Savaii. This initiative follows a similar introduction of support in Upolu late December last year which was delivered via cohort- based programs.

The Samoa Arts Fono, will be hosting an inaugural meeting next month from the 4th to the 6th March, with the objective to establish the infrastructure for the creative industries in Samoa and the Moana Pacific Island States. This is a vital platform for fostering collaboration and addressing critical issues within Samoa and the Moana Pacific arts sector.

The government of Samoa has launched its first-ever One-Government Portal, marking a significant milestone in its ongoing Digital Transformation Strategy, according to the Hon. Minister of Communications and Information Technology, Agaseata Tanuvasa Valelio Peto.

Feagaimaalii Soti-Mapu has officially begun her duties as the newly crowned Miss Samoa after being handed over by the coordinating organization, Onomea Production.

The 3rd Pacific Sustainable Tourism Summit, held in Vava'u, Tonga from October 18-21, concluded successfully with industry leaders revisiting the Pacific Sustainable Tourism Policy Framework (PSTPF) to assess progress toward sustainable tourism by 2030. The focus was on aligning regional efforts concerning the framework's four key goals: