Samoa Tourism Authority has signed on as the Manu Samoa’s Official Partner for the World Rugby 2022 Pacific Nations Cup which kicks off this weekend.

S.T.A. Acting C.E.O. Kitiona Pogi said they are looking forward to showcasing the Samoa brand to an international audience with the country preparing to welcome international travellers with open arms from next month. 

“The pandemic has had a huge impact on Samoa’s travel and tourism industry since borders closed in March 2020 and we as a country are eager to welcome back travellers to enjoy our beautiful home and support Samoa’s economic recovery,” he said in a statement.

"The iconic Manu Samoa is taking part in the 15th edition of the tournament, the first in two years due to the pandemic and S.T.A. is thrilled to support the national team.”

As part of a deal between the national rugby team and the authority, the authority’s “Beautiful Samoa” logo and the “Reopening 1st August” message will be displayed on the team's playing jersey and training kits, ensuring that the destination is front and centre at the region’s premiere rugby tournament. 

Lakapi Samoa CEO Faleomavaega Vincent Fepuleai said in the statement that the partnership between Manu Samoa and the S.T.A. makes sense as an international brand.

“It’s wonderful for us to be involved with Manu Samoa in a competition that showcases the best of Pacific rugby,” Faleomavaega said.

“We are very grateful Samoa Tourism has come on board. Empowering and promoting Samoa are at the heart of what we do so the partnership is natural.

“We’re delighted to promote Beautiful Samoa. We are a rugby-loving nation and an enchanting holiday destination that needs support as international borders reopen on 1st August.” 

Faleomavaega Vincent Fepuleai said as international brands, the partnership makes absolute sense and the team is humbled by the support of the authority.

The S.T.A. believes that supporting the Manu in the Pacific Nations Cup is an excellent opportunity to support tourism growth, particularly from New Zealand and Australia when borders reopen. 

The Pacific Nations Cup will be televised internationally including New Zealand and Australia. 

Less than four hours from Auckland and under six hours from Sydney and Brisbane, the authority said Samoa is renowned for its natural beauty and genuine hospitality, boasting a 100-year history of rugby after it was first introduced in 1920.