The Deputy Prime Minister of Samoa says he will push to form a new Samoa-New Zealand Business Council.
Fonotoe Nuafesili Pierre Lauofo says an improved trade relationship between the two countries will be better achieved with a council made up of private sector representatives.
He says trade barriers need to be reduced, and there are also quarantine issues, such as when taro shipments are held for fumigating for extended periods.
He says having a trade commissioner in New Zealand is helpful, but a business council would get more partners working together.
"I feel there is a lot of merit in that and I am seriously to that. Right now I see a lot of positive reaction from the business people here in Aucland and especially Samoans who are involved in business so I think I'm going to accord it my first prioroty and I would like to see it established it as soon as possible."
Fonotoe Nuafesili Pierre Lauofo says labour mobility is also an ongoing issue to resolve with Australia and New Zealand so that markets can be better accessed.
