GDP Update: Samoa’s Bureau of Statistics has withdrawn its GDP Expenditure Report estimating an 8.1% contraction in 2025/26, saying the figures are being reviewed for accuracy and quality; SBS stressed its Quarterly GDP Production reports remain the official estimates. Airport Hiring: Samoa Airport Authority has re-advertised its General Manager role on a three-year contract, with applications due 20 Oct; the post previously went to Tumanuvao Evile Falefatu, but the reason for the repeat ad wasn’t stated. Climate Finance Watch: Pacific journalists and anti-corruption experts met in Fiji to train on tracking climate and disaster funds, warning that complex procurement and rapid disbursements can enable leakage. Politics & Reputation: Prime Minister La’aulialemalietoa Leuatea Schmidt apologized after a 2007 video surfaced showing him saying “Heil Hitler” and making a Nazi salute, saying the words and gesture were inappropriate. EV Charging Costs: Samoa’s MNRE is developing a user-pay model for solar EV charging at Friendship Park, aiming for sustainable cost recovery and future expansion. Palolo Harvest Rules: Harvesters have been advised to seek prior approval where required before accessing palolo worm areas, with village rules and marine boundaries to be respected. Rugby League Spotlight: Samoa named its 2026 World Cup squad, with Payne Haas the biggest absentee due to injury, as the tournament schedule and regional squads roll out.