2 Samoas

He told KHJ yesterday afternoon that he was not aware of the counter ban by his country's Ministry of Agriculture.

American Samoa had suspended the importation of Samoan taro last year over concerns of a leaf virus.

Before resuming the trade American Samoa then announced that it would want its inspectors to first visit the plantations of the Samoan exporters.

That then prompted Samoa to issue a ban on the exports to American Samoa.

The airlines entry into American Samoa market will see the end of the monopoly held for the last couple of years by Polynesian Airlines.

Spokesman and chief pilot Toleafoa Jeffrey Hunter said they will offer 6-7 flights from Fagalii Airport (FGI) to Pago Pago (PPG) and one service from Faleolo International Airport (APW) to PPG per day.

Office space at Pago Pago International Airport is being finalized and staff hired with online booking and website available soon.

Talofa Airways will operate two Twin Commander planes on the services which seat 9 passengers.