The Scientific Research Organisation of Samoa (SROS) could become privately owned.
A proposal to commercialize SROS will be tabled in Cabinet for its consideration, the Minister in charge of the Organisation, Laaulialemalietoa Leuatea Polataivao Schmidt told parliament.
He noted that after 11 years since SROS was established, the research organization, has fulfill its mandate to develop added value to primary produce for export to overcome the trade challenges faced by Samoa with the ultimate target to increase economic benefits.
“The time for trials is over,” added the Minister. “It is time to move forward and adopt with the changes.”
Laaulialemalietoa recalled that SROS was also intended to be the research arm to develop new products and for the business sector to step in as investors by commercializing the SROS formulas in attempts to improve foreign export earnings.
He noted that SROS has successful developed formulas to produce gluten flour from breadfruit, organic avocado oil, liquors and a whole range of by-products utilizing local produce.
But the local business community is not taking up the opportunity to invest due to financial constraints.
And to take SROS to the next level, the proposal to commercialize the Organisation will be with Cabinet, according to a statement from the Ministry of the Prime Minister and Cabinet.
Photo by Government of Samoa: SROS Minister Laaulialemalietoa Leuatea Polataivao Schmidt