The government is initiating measures to crack down on the growing presence of foreign nationals operating food stalls along roadsides. 

These plans to address significant concerns about the rise in foreign-run businesses, particularly those selling food on streets, were disclosed in parliament on Thursday. 

Tuala Iosefo Ponifasio, Minister of Customs and Revenue and Deputy Prime Minister revealed these efforts during government responses to budget discussions.

He acknowledged the seriousness of the issue, admitting ongoing inspections conducted by his ministry in response to numerous public complaints. 

However, he pointed out that other ministries are also involved besides his ministry. He clarified that individuals looking to engage in such businesses must first obtain clearance from the Ministry of Health (M.O.H.) and acquire a health ID card. 

They also need approval from the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (M.N.R.E.). Furthermore, foreign nationals starting businesses in Samoa must secure confirmation certificates from the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Labour (M.C.I.L.).

Tuala explained that his ministry finds monitoring and enforcement challenging due to the need for cooperation from other government ministries responsible for enforcing their respective regulations.

He further explained that their investigations indicate that many foreign nationals selling food on roadside stalls are doing so illegally. 

According to Tuala, most arrive in Samoa on visitor visas with the intent to conduct business and work. Some initially apply for 30-day visas and then reapply for three-month visas. Others, he noted, apply for sponsored business visas specifically to establish businesses in Samoa.

Tuala added that some of these individuals befriend Samoans while making preparations, and some resort to marrying Samoans, acquiring matai titles, and eventually applying for citizenship. 

He described the issue as complex due to Samoa's comparatively less stringent visa regulations.

He pointed out that obtaining visas for travel to other countries involves a lengthy process and specific requirements. Tuala acknowledged the challenges his ministry faces in monitoring and enforcing these regulations. 

He informed the assembly that improving the legislative framework is the most effective approach to addressing these concerns and issues.

The legislation needs to be harmonised because this issue involves not just one ministry but several ministries. Tuala stressed the need for collaborative efforts among all the ministries concerned. 

He announced that the Cabinet had approved the formation of a taskforce named J.A.C.E. (Joint Action Cooperation and Enforcement) Group. This taskforce will integrate the efforts of all involved ministries to mitigate the issue. 

They will collaborate to enhance the existing legislative framework to tackle the problem.

Tuala mentioned that his ministry has been assigned the responsibility of developing guidelines and a framework to facilitate this collaborative approach. 

This initiative will involve various government entities including those handling foreign investment certificates, M.C.I.L., M.C.R., Immigration, Police, Ministry of Health (M.O.H.), Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (M.N.R.E.), Samoa Law Reform Commission, and the Office of the Attorney General.

Several members of parliament expressed concerns about the growing number of foreigners opening restaurants and operating barbecue stalls on roadsides, asserting that they are competing with local families, businesses, and organisations.