The review of the minimum wage in Samoa looks to be on the cards with the Minister of Finance Lautimuia Uelese Va'ai saying the government is looking to establish a committee that would spearhead this.

The current minimum wage in Samoa is SAT$3.00 per hour and that came into effect in 2020.

Speaking on the Soalepule program Wednesday evening, Lautimuia Uelese Va'ai mentioned the establishment of a committee responsible for engaging with stakeholders and the business community regarding this matter. 

He highlighted that the government had already sanctioned and enforced salary increases for public servants during the current fiscal year. 

Stressing the importance of thorough consultations due to their potential impact on the business sector, he emphasised the considerable effort involved. 

He indicated that upon the conclusion of consultations, a report and recommendations would be presented to the Cabinet for consideration.

Last September, Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mata'afa responded to questions from the Samoa Observer saying that there is an opportunity for a review of the minimum wage in Samoa. 

"The matter of the minimum wage is a policy consideration under the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Labor (MCIL)," Fiame said. 

"The minimum wage is a provision under the Labour and Employment Relations Amendment Act 2023 and under this legislation, there is an opportunity for a review."

When questioned about the government's strategies for tackling public concerns regarding the cost of living, Fiame emphasised that this issue was part of a global trend influenced by events beyond Samoa's control.

"The Government has several policies to enable assistance to the private sector by way of grants and support funds, stimulus funding for businesses affected by COVID-19, duty concessions for eligible businesses and companies, reduction in utility costs and fees for public services, assistance in social services with an increase in pension and disability benefits, assistance to public health care services and facilities, overseas medical treatment scheme and the education grant and scholarship scheme.

"Further assistance is disseminated to communities and NGOs to support community-based initiatives."

The Government budget for the current fiscal year includes a cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) for all public and civil servants.