AGP Executive Report
Last update: 11 hours agoPublic Finance: The Fono sued Governor Pula over the $10.1 million ARPA-interest investment, arguing it was committed without legislative approval. Finance adviser Brett Butler told senators a $101.1 million return is expected, but fees and costs would leave about $84.9 million after repayment of the principal. Shipping Costs: Swire Shipping will raise fuel surcharges on specified Pacific routes from Nov. 15; a standard 20-foot container will cost $535, up from $495, adding pressure to freight expenses. Fisheries: The Western Pacific Regional Fishery Management Council is seeking a new executive director for the first time in more than 40 years, as longtime director Kitty Simonds prepares to step down. Separately, a labor-rights report alleges forced labor in StarKist’s tuna supply chain, based on interviews with 92 Indonesian migrant fishers. Business Outlook: Census projections show American Samoa’s population could fall 61% by 2100, a long-term concern for the workforce and local demand. Local Industry: The Zoning Board rejected construction company CTC’s latest bid to relocate its materials and production operations, leaving the business without approval for a new site.
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