A tourism chief in American Samoa, David Vaeafe, says tourism hasn't reached its potential in the territory because there's been no relationship between private operators and the government.
Mr Vaeafe, who is the Executive Director of the American Samoa Tourism Bureau, highlighted the need for strong ties at the latest meeting of cabinet.
He says ministers and their departments have a role in making the tourism industry successful and there are many attractions which have yet to be developed.
The lieutenant governor Lemanu Peleti Mauga says the development of local tourism is critical as the territory tries to diversify and look for another income earner to supplement the Starkist cannery which has been the backbone of the territory up to now.
He says department directors can help market the territory when they travel off island for meetings and conferences.
