The Samoa Association of Manufacturers and Exporters (SAME) is a trade association primarily tasked with providing essential services for Samoa's manufacturers and exporters of goods and services. The organisation's primary services revolve around voicing issues and concerns, representing members' interests before the government and other organizations, and disseminating information.
SAME organises consultations, meetings and trade fairs for its members, along with providing services to enhance skills development and marketing strategies. The trade association has proved instrumental in boosting the exposure of Samoa's manufacturing and export sector, ensuring that its members' voices are heard and attracting attention, both at the local and international level.
The monthly members' meetings are usually held on the last Wednesday at 5.30 pm local time. The preferred venue is Hotel Elisa, a SAME member. Not only do these meetings provide a chance for members to discuss pressing concerns and important subjects, but there is also an opportunity for networking after the formal proceedings. These meetings and networking sessions play a significant part in sustaining and strengthening the bond within the manufacturing and export community in Samoa.
SAME also provides members with online resources, including the option to create a new account and reset passwords. Online access ensures that resources and information can be reached conveniently and swiftly by members. Though the website's content is limited, it offers a functional interface that is easily navigable, allowing users to find the information they need without any hassle.
As mentioned on their website, the copyrights for all content rest with SAME, indicating they are committed to upholding their members' intellectual property rights. Despite the minimalistic approach of their interface, SAME stands out as a dedicated platform for Samoa's manufacturers and exporters, centralising various resources and services under one roof.
In conclusion, SAME serves as an important connector for Samoa's manufacturers and exporters, ensuring representation and unionizing the sector's interests. They provide a blend of essential services, from information dissemination to hosting trade fairs and export promotions, all aiming to fortify the manufacturing and export sector in Samoa. The association fosters a sense of community among its members, hosting monthly meetings and providing a platform for networking, sharing ideas and knowledge. Despite its digital phase being in the early stages, SAME is aligned with contemporary trends of providing seamless online resources for its members. In all, it can be asserted that the Samoa Association of Manufacturers and Exporters is an integral pillar contributing to the growth and development of Samoa's manufacturing and export sector.