American Samoa Fisheries Task Force
Working to strengthen American Samoa's fisheries, fishing communities, and tuna economy.
The American Samoa Fisheries Task Force brings together government, fishermen, fisheries science, industry, and community representatives to develop coordinated recommendations for the Governor on major fisheries issues affecting the Territory.
Background photo of Pago Pago Harbor and the local fishing community to be added.
Fisheries Task Force Begins Work on Priority Fisheries Issues
July–August 2026
The American Samoa Fisheries Task Force held its first meeting on July 30, 2026 and began organizing its work around several immediate priorities affecting the Territory's fisheries and tuna economy.
Initial work includes examining fuel and operating costs affecting fishing and processing, developing American Samoa's position on South Pacific albacore management, addressing federal fishing access and regulatory issues, strengthening territorial and small-boat fisheries, and preparing the Task Force's initial strategic framework for the Governor.
The Task Force will continue coordinating with fishermen, industry, government agencies, federal partners, and regional fisheries organizations as this work moves forward.
View Current PrioritiesWorking Together for American Samoa's Fisheries
American Samoa's fisheries are closely connected to our food supply, culture, employment, small businesses, fishing communities, and the broader economy. Fisheries decisions affecting the Territory are made at several levels, from the American Samoa Government to federal agencies and regional and international fisheries organizations.
The American Samoa Fisheries Task Force provides a forum for bringing these interests together and developing coordinated recommendations to the Governor.
The Task Force was re-established by Executive Order No. 003-26 and is supported administratively by the American Samoa Department of Marine and Wildlife Resources.
What We Are Working On
Tuna Industry and Economic Sustainability
American Samoa's tuna industry connects the local longline fleet, U.S.-flag purse seine vessels, Pago Pago Harbor, seafood processing, transportation, utilities, local businesses, government revenue, and families throughout the Territory.
The Task Force is examining actions that can strengthen the long-term stability and competitiveness of this economic system while maintaining sustainable fisheries.
Active PriorityFishing Costs and Fleet Viability
Fuel, vessel maintenance, transportation, freight, infrastructure, and other operating costs affect every part of American Samoa's fisheries.
The Task Force is developing recommendations on practical ways territorial and federal actions may help address these pressures, including the different challenges faced by longline vessels, purse seine vessels, small-boat fishermen, Manu'a fishermen, and shoreside businesses.
Recommendations Under DevelopmentFederal Fisheries Policy and Fishing Access
Many fisheries affecting American Samoa are managed under federal law and regulation.
The Task Force is reviewing federal fishing access, marine national monument policy, permitting and compliance requirements, and other federal actions affecting American Samoa's fishermen and tuna industry.
The goal is to ensure that fisheries decisions are based on sound science while also recognizing the economic, cultural, and community importance of fishing to American Samoa.
Federal Engagement UnderwaySouth Pacific Albacore and WCPFC
South Pacific albacore is the principal target of the American Samoa longline fishery and an important part of the Territory's tuna economy.
The Task Force is helping develop a coordinated American Samoa position as the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission considers future management and allocation of the stock.
American Samoa's priorities include maintaining a viable local fishery, recognizing the Territory's historical participation and economic dependence, and protecting future fishing opportunities.
International Fisheries PrioritySmall-Boat and Territorial Fisheries Development
Strong local fisheries require more than access to fish.
The Task Force is examining opportunities involving alia and small-vessel development, training, fishing infrastructure, fuel access, ice and cold storage, boat ramps and docks, fish aggregating devices, market access, and pathways for the next generation of American Samoan fishermen.
Particular attention will be given to the additional costs and access challenges faced by fishermen in Manu'a and other remote communities.
Development Priorities Being AssessedFederal and Legislative Engagement
Federal laws, programs, and policies can have major effects on American Samoa's fisheries and tuna economy.
The Task Force works with the Governor, American Samoa's Delegate to Congress, federal agencies, the Western Pacific Regional Fishery Management Council, and other partners to identify actions that support American Samoa's fisheries interests.
Topics may include fisheries legislation, tuna industry competitiveness, fishing access, federal regulatory policy, economic development measures, seafood trade, and other matters affecting the Territory.
Ongoing