Central Banking Reform: Samoa’s Parliament has passed the Central Bank of Samoa Amendment Bill 2026 second reading, with reforms aimed at separating the governor’s role from the board chair to strengthen governance and oversight, while the HRPP and independents warn the changes could weaken the bank’s independence. Foreign Investment Rules: The Foreign Investment Amendment Bill 2026 also cleared its second reading, introducing new definitions, a registration certificate for foreign investors, and tighter disclosure rules for beneficial owners and trusts, including reporting material changes within 14 working days. Credit Reporting Overhaul: Samoa passed the Credit Information Register Bill 2026 on its third and final reading, setting up a national credit register run by the Central Bank to support creditworthiness checks by authorised lenders. Security & Trade Links: Samoa’s Foreign Investment and Central Bank debates come as regional attention grows on Indo-Pacific influence, with reporting noting China’s shift from big infrastructure loans to smaller, more frequent projects across the Pacific. Business & Community: Samoa is set to join a €6m regional marine litter and plastic waste project led by SPREP with GIZ and the Pacific Community, while Savai‘i bushfire response continues after recurring fires in Samalaeulu and Falealupo. Diplomacy: Samoa’s Finance Minister met a World Bank division director to discuss development priorities and progress on current projects.