American Samoa cannery

The plant was expecting a fish delivery over the weekend.

StarKist Samoa is the largest private employer in the territory with some 2000 workers.

Our correspondent in Pago Pago reported fears among many workers that continuing shortage of fish will mean they will have difficulty supporting their families.

Photo: RNZI

Eight members of the Committee, which has jurisdiction over the US Pacific territories, have just completed a two day visit to American Samoa.,

StarKist discussed the impact of minimum wage law, reduced fishing days and the increased in costs to US fishing boats under the new South Pacific Tuna Treaty, the impact of US imposed regulations on fishing in the high seas, and how the company relies on tax credits which will end in 2018.

The committee chair, Rob Bishop, said they could help.