Following the Australian Chief Medical Officer Professor Paul Kelly’s latest comments indicating the Pacific Island nations being next after New Zealand for travel bubble inclusion, Samoan Tourism Authority supports its positioning as a COVID-19 free nation, and the future of travel with Australians.

Samoa Tourism Authority CEO Fa’amatuainu Lenatai Suifua: said.

It’s been a challenging few months, however, our aiga (family) of operators remain in positive spirits. It’s been inspiring to see their resilience and we’re all excited to welcome back our favourite neighbours.

We want to see tourists return as soon as possible, and as Australia is planning, we’re working hard to become part of the Pacific travel bubble.

Samoa is feeling extremely positive about how it has responded to COVID-19, and while our economy is heavily reliant on tourism, we have been extremely careful and considered about reopening given the country has not recorded any local Coronavirus cases so far.

We remain committed to establishing a travel bubble with Australia as soon as it can be safely done. Our principal concern is to ensure the health of Australians and Samoans is protected. 

Once travel recommences, health considerations will be at the forefront of all that we do and issues such as insurance, quarantine and testing measures will be agreed upon with the Australian Government.