FATF status

Samoa is not on the FATF List of Countries that have been identified as having strategic AML deficiencies

Compliance with FATF Recommendations

The last follow-up Mutual Evaluation Report relating to the implementation of anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing standards in Samoa was undertaken in 2023. According to that Evaluation, Samoa was deemed Compliant for 6 and Largely Compliant for 15 of the FATF 40 Recommendations. It was also deemed Highly Effective for 0 and Substantially Effective for 1 with regard to the 11 areas of Effectiveness of its AML/CFT Regime.

Samoa has faced credible allegations of corruption involving government officials from both major political parties, although corruption has not been identified as a barrier to foreign investment. While laws against corruption and bribery exist and are enforced, issues persist, particularly in government procurement where contracts often benefit family members. The country is in the process of developing its first national Anti-Corruption Policy with international assistance, but lacks a dedicated anti-corruption tribunal and local watchdog organizations.

Samoa's economy has rebounded strongly in 2023, with real GDP growth reaching eight percent and nominal GDP exceeding USD 1 billion for the first time, largely driven by a recovering tourism sector. Despite this growth, the economy remains reliant on remittances and foreign aid, and it suffers from a lack of diversification, having previously been downgraded to lower-middle income status by the World Bank due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Samoa's investment climate is generally welcoming to foreign direct investment (FDI), particularly in sectors that create local employment, such as tourism and agriculture. The government has pledged to streamline procedures for attracting FDI, although barriers remain, including restrictions on certain business activities reserved for Samoan citizens. Customary land ownership complicates foreign investment, as about 80% of land is owned by villages and can only be leased, not sold.