A partnership that has taken years to come to fruition was launched on Thursday. Vailima Brewery and Rugby League Samoa launched the Vailima Lager Toa cans.

The limited-edition cans are literally wearing the Toa Samoa kit that will be used at the Rugby League World Cup. It carries the emblem of the Toa Samoa, and TOA is spelt on one side of the can.

Vailima Breweries managing director Masoe Charlie Vaai said the idea behind the deal was to promote Samoa, Toa Samoa, Fetu Samoa and the taste of Samoa to overseas markets.

“The relation between Vailima and Toa Samoa goes way back. It was really because the team made the finals in the last World Cup and it was a huge achievement from the sporting body and the boys,” he said.

“The majority of our boys play in Australia and overseas. We thought that leading up to this year’s World Cup, we would do a limited edition in support of the boys and also a toast to their loyalty.

“Choosing to play for Samoa over Australia and New Zealand. It is a huge milestone for rugby league and also for the beer to get exposure in Australia.”

Masoe said Australia was a huge market and that is why the Samoa Tourism Authority is also involved. The limited edition can also carry the ‘Beautiful Samoa’ logo.

The breakthrough into the Australian market is being worked on as the company fulfils the regulatory requirements. A target has been set for July. The cans will be exported to Australia, New Zealand and American Samoa.

Rugby League Samoa president Fiu Ponifasio Vasa said the launch marked a partnership that has existed longer than a decade and reflected the work of those who were there before the current board.

“Government does support at the elite and national level but we depend heavily on our business community and having Vailima with us is always a positive thing,” he said.

Samoa Tourism Authority said chief executive officer Niumata Kitiona Pogi said while New Zealand remained the biggest tourism market, getting more out of Australia is always beneficial.

He said the Beautiful Samoa branding helps market Samoa as a tourism destination to Australians.

The limited edition Vailima Lager cans will be available in the local market from this week.