Governor Pulaali’i Nikolao Pula says Fiscal Year 2027 reflects an important transition.
“As American Rescue Plan Act funding reaches its conclusion, the focus shifts from pandemic recovery to long term sustainability,” he told Fono leaders in a cover letter accompanying the proposed Fiscal Year 2027 budget.
The Governor said the budget reflects an administration that has moved beyond immediate fiscal stabilization toward building a stronger, more resilient and more self sustaining economy.
“American Samoa’s long term success will depend on maintaining sound fiscal discipline while making strategic investments that strengthen our economy, modernize government operations, and improve the quality of life for our people,” he wrote.
“As extraordinary federal pandemic assistance concludes, the territory must increasingly rely on sustainable local revenues, prudent financial management and policies that encourage private sector investment and economic diversification.”
Governor Pulaali’i reaffirmed that their administration remains committed to maintaining structurally balanced budgets that are supported by realistic revenue projections and responsible expenditure controls. He believes this disciplined approach protects essential public services while preserving the territory’s long term financial health and reducing reliance on one-time funding sources.
According to the Governor the completion of the Google Le Vasa submarine cable project will significantly expand broadband capacity and improve digital connectivity for businesses, schools, healthcare providers and government agencies. Likewise continued implementation of the port development vision seeks to modernize maritime infrastructure, strengthen regional trade, improve cargo efficiency and position Pago Pago Harbor as a more competitive logistics hub for the Pacific.
He said the administration will continue investments in education, vocational training, healthcare recruitment and retention and workforce development programs to strengthen the territory’s workforce while reducing dependence on imported labor in critical industries
Improving government efficiency is another goal of the administration. Continued modernization of fiscal management systems, tax administration, procurement processes, custos operations and digital government services, he said, will enhance transparency, improve accountability, strengthen revenue collection and provide better services to the public, while reducing administrative costs over time.
Governor Pulaali’i pledged that the administration remains committed to working with stakeholders to strengthen the American Samoa Government Employees Retirement Fund, responsibly manage government liabilities and improve the long term financial position of the territory without compromising current public services.
The proposed Fiscal Year 2027 budget totals $789.3 million.
