30 April 2026, Apia, Samoa. The Samoa Association of Manufacturers and Exporters (SAME) have elected Tapunu’u Pitovaomanaia Mayday LHing, owner and co-founder of Frankies as President with senior lawyer Afoa Lemauga Charlie Vaai of Vailima as Vice President.
SAME members elected its new Executive Council at its Annual General Meeting held in Apia on Wednesday 30 April 2026.
“The newly elected leadership team brings together experienced business leaders from across Samoa’s manufacturing, export, retail, food production, and service sectors.
“Their collective expertise will help guide SAME’s mission to strengthen local enterprise, expand export opportunities, and champion policies that support sustainable economic growth.”
Other Council members include Treasurer: Anish Chandra pf Vodafone, and Sabrina Percival of Natural Foods as Executive Secretary. Former President Afoa Stefan Szegedi of Treasure Box and first SAME woman President, Taulapapa Maria Leota who both remains on the Council.
Other Executive Council members are Luamanuvae Nathan Wilson of Wilex Samoa who had previously served as Executive Secretary, Lemauga Robert Pereira, Niko Vui and Jaqueline Adams.
Leadership Profiles
President
Tapunu’u Pitovaomanaia Mayday LHing is a respected Samoan business leader and Director within the Frankie Group, one of Samoa’s leading private sector enterprises.
She is recognised for her leadership across a diversified portfolio that includes retail supermarkets, Sunshine Pacific poultry and hydroponics farms, and manufacturing operations such as the Cool Express ice cream and bottled water factory.
Her appointment reflects a strong commitment to innovation, business growth, and creating opportunities for Samoa.
Vice President
Lemauga Masoe Charlie Vaai is a respected businessman and entrepreneur, widely recognised for helping lead the return of Vailima beer production to Samoa.
As a key figure behind Vailima Breweries, he has championed local investment, job creation, and the revival of one of Samoa’s most iconic brands.
He brings valuable leadership experience and a deep commitment to strengthening Samoan enterprise.
Looking Ahead
SAME congratulates all successful candidates and looks forward to working together to strengthen Samoa’s manufacturing and export sectors, support private sector growth, and create new opportunities for local businesses.
As the national voice for manufacturers and exporters, SAME plays a vital role in advocating for business-friendly policies, reducing barriers to trade, promoting local industries, and connecting members with training, partnerships, and market opportunities.
Through collaboration with government, development partners, and the wider private sector, SAME continues to champion innovation, job creation, and economic resilience in Samoa.
Businesses of all sizes are encouraged to become members of SAME and be part of a stronger collective voice shaping Samoa’s economic future.
Job Opportunities
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