“This is an opportunity that should not be missed—but only if it is pursued responsibly, with transparency, and with the long-term interests of the people of American Samoa at its core.”
So says a statement from Governor Pulaalii Nikolao Pula concerning the issue of seabed mining, in light of President Trump and Department of Interior’s launching of a process for review of a lease request for ocean exploration of waters near American Samoa.
The Governor stated that for decades, American Samoa has sought ways to diversify its economy beyond our longstanding reliance on the tuna industry.
“This initiative presents a unique opportunity to explore new economic pathways that could bring growth, innovation, and stability to our territory,“ he said.
“Additionally, this initiative positions American Samoa such that we could play a pivotal role in advancing U.S. national security priorities by reducing U.S. dependence on foreign adversaries, particularly China.”
The Governor said he is particularly mindful of the potential impacts that deep-sea mining may have on our marine environment and the tuna industry. To that end, he’s actively working with the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) and the Office of Insular Affairs at the Department of the Interior to ensure that there is comprehensive study of the possible effects mining could have on our tuna fisheries and marine ecosystem, including implications on President Trump’s Executive Order on Restoring American Seafood Competitiveness, signed April 17, 2025.
“This scientific review will be essential in guiding our decisions and ensuring that any actions taken are grounded in sound data and environmental stewardship. While mining would occur within our Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), a federally controlled area outside American Samoa’s jurisdiction, I am committed to ensuring that American Samoa is not left out,” Pulaalii assured.
He clarified that the American Samoa Economic Development Council is a private organization, and is not affiliated with the American Samoa Government. ASEDC
The Governor assured that deliberate steps are being taken to understand the many implications of mining in our waters, and he “remains committed to protecting the interests of our people, our environment, and our economic future.”
