Education & Data Systems: Samoa’s Education Ministry launched the Samoa Education Management Information System (SEMIS), giving a real-time profile of every school so support can be targeted before problems escalate. Budget & Social Support: From 1 July 2026, the Government rolled out higher Senior Citizens Benefits (SAT$500 monthly), a new Child Wellbeing Benefit, a 6% SNPF dividend (with cash and account top-ups), and an increased National Minimum Wage to SAT$5.24/hour. Labour Migration Pressure: A Chamber of Commerce Labour Migration Survey found mobility benefits come with rising replacement costs, productivity strain, and workforce shortages—especially in retail/wholesale, hospitality/tourism and manufacturing. Public Finance & Inflation: The Central Bank of Samoa kept monetary policy unchanged, expecting temporary inflation pressure from higher oil prices while supporting growth. Fuel & Energy Security: Samoa reported enough petroleum for about a month, with the next shipment due 4 July and an Amber Level Alert maintained. Compensation Progress: More than SAT$6m tala has been distributed to Safata families under the HMNZS Manawanui compensation deal, with Siumu residents also set for payments. Policing Partnership: Samoa and New Zealand launched a four-year Policing Programme with NZ advisers to strengthen investigations, prosecutions, prevention and community engagement. Governance Appointments: Cabinet approved new chairs and board directors for several state bodies and SOEs, with more confirmations expected next week. Law & Regulation (Vapes): Samoa has no laws banning vape imports, with MPs pressing for clearer regulation as health concerns grow. Regional Security & Crime: Australia’s High Commissioner highlighted Pacific cooperation against transnational serious and organised crime, including support for a Regional Centre of Excellence in Samoa. International Diplomacy: Samoa’s wider region watch continues as the new US ambassador to New Zealand floated the idea of a nuclear-powered aircraft carrier visit to Auckland—while stressing he won’t change NZ’s nuclear-free policy.