Amer. Samoa Delegate to U.S.Congress sees- technology based economy essential to territory

Congresswoman Amata / Chairman of the House Small Business Subcommittee
on Health & Technology, gavels in the first hearing of the session

Aumua Sees High Tech as Hope for American Samoa Economy

Press Release

Washington, D.C. – Thursday, following a hearing of the House Small Business Subcommittee on Health & Technology,Chairman Aumua Amata expressed her optimism on the potential for high tech companies to operate and greatly impact the economies of rural areas like American Samoa.

“It is essential that we help foster growth in the app industry,” said Amata. “It has been noted that by 2017, the app industry will potentially be worth $151 billion. This unprecedented growth is a boon to our economy, which relies upon the success of our entrepreneurs and small businesses,” continued Amata.

The hearing titled, Modern Tools in a Modern World: How App Technology is Benefitting Small Business, invited witnesses from the app industry to discuss the increasing use of app technology and the implications for small American businesses, particularly in under-served areas of the country. The hearing also examined how apps improve businesses’ day to day operations by making them more efficient, assisting in marketing and outreach capabilities, and ultimately stimulating revenue and job growth.

During the hearing, the witnesses testified on the many benefits as well as difficulties facing the industry. One of the concerns raised was in regard to overregulation and no clear set industry standard on property rights issues. Other issues ranged from the ability of small businesses to compete with their larger counterparts thanks to the technology, to the benefits of employment opportunities for rural areas.

Several apps were mentioned during the hearing to demonstrate the diversity of the origins of the apps and who can utilize the technology, including Kavagram, which was created by Pago Pago native, Sonny Stevenson. Kavagram is a photo app that allows users to add Polynesian cultural filters and designs to their photos before sharing them with friends and family, or on social media. 

“It is an honor to serve as the Chairman of this distinguished committee and I look forward to leading it as the 114th Congress progresses. It is our mission to ensure that America’s small businesses are given every opportunity to succeed and to limit the burdens placed upon these companies that make up over 99% of our economy,” concluded Amata.

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