The corrections minister, Tialavea Tionisio Hunt, said the new Tanumalala Prison was expected to be ready by October or November this year.
It will include six cell blocks; four for men, one for women, and one for custodial remand. There will also be a facility for high risk detainees.
There had been numerous breakouts from the current prison, Tafaigata, in the recent past.
Last week Prime Minister Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi accused Tafaigata management of being careless and poor.
