Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mata’afa has expressed caution regarding new labour mobility opportunities for Samoans in Japan, as discussions progress to potentially open doors to Pacific island workers.
In an exclusive interview with the Samoa Observer, Fiame highlighted the significance of income generation through labour mobility but voiced concerns about its impact on Samoa’s human resources. “We [currently] have issues with labour mobility in general,” she stated, emphasising that extensions to seasonal work agreements with Australia and New Zealand have often lacked adequate consultations.
Fiame’s comments came in response to questions about Japan’s potential opening for Pacific labour mobility. Last month, Tonga’s Ambassador to Japan, Dr. Suka Mangisi noted that Japan’s aging population had created a need for foreign workers.
“The thing is with the New Zealand and Australia labour mobility agreement, it was supposed to be seasonal. But as we’ve seen, they sort of made extensions without really having proper consultations on it,” Fiame explained. “Of course, we would support any opportunities for our people to earn money, but there is also that part of losing human resources.”
Fiame is leaning toward the the American Samoa labour scheme, pointing out its geographical proximity and economic benefits due to the stronger US dollar. “That opportunity is more significant for us. It’s not only geographically closer and facilitates easier movement for our people, but also benefits from the strong value of the American dollar,” she said. “Additionally, we are actively engaged in discussions and have a mutual understanding with the American Samoa government regarding the implementation of this initiative.”
Contrasting Fiame’s cautious stance, Tongan Ambassador Suka highlighted Japan’s gradual opening to foreign labour due to its aging population. “There are sectors within Japan’s economy that need foreign labour,” Suka noted, emphasising the potential for Pacific islanders to contribute positively to Japan’s workforce.
Suka also discussed the broader Pacific-Japan relations and the need to increase trade and investment flows from Japan into the Pacific region. He highlighted the role of diplomatic engagement and the positive reputation of Pacific islanders in Japan, particularly in sports like rugby.
