Governor Pulaali‘i Nikolao Pula has reaffirmed American Samoa’s opposition to the proposed commercial leasing for deep-sea mining within the territory’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) in a letter to Secretary of the Interior Douglas Burgum.
The governor’s correspondence, sent in direct response to the Department of the Interior’s Request for Information (RFI), reiterated the administration’s stance as outlined in Executive Order 006-24, which established a moratorium on seabed mining in American Samoa.
Citing extensive consultation with local leaders and residents, the governor urged that no commercial activity proceed in the region without the express support of the American Samoa Government.
The governor stated in his August 4 letter to Secretary Burgum, “As conveyed in my letter dated May 5, 2025, the American Samoa Government has consistently recognized the strategic importance of critical marine minerals to national security and economic resilience. In that letter, I also emphasized the need for a comprehensive, science-based assessment of potential environmental impacts, particularly given the central role of our tuna industry and the ocean’s deep cultural and ecological significance to our people.
“Since that time, we have continued to engage with stakeholders, including our federal partners and—most importantly—the people of American Samoa. On June 13, 2025, I convened a meeting with our territory’s senior leaders, including the lieutenant governor, our congressional delegate, and the leadership of both legislative chambers. Following thoughtful discussion, we reached a unified position of opposition to the proposed commercial leasing within the American Samoa EEZ, consistent with the concerns raised by our residents and traditional leaders.”
Governor Pulaali‘i expressed appreciation for the extension of the public comment period, commending it as a step toward transparency and inclusive dialogue.
“We continue to support collaboration and open dialogue with the Department of the Interior and the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management. In that spirit, I respectfully request that American Samoa’s moratorium and formal opposition be fully considered in BOEM’s decision-making process, and that no commercial leasing or exploration activity proceed in the American Samoa EEZ without the express support of the territorial government. And finally, I ask that any future engagements reflect a shared commitment to environmental integrity, scientific integrity, and equitable consultation with the people of American Samoa.”
