Talaitupu Li’a

 

Chief Executive Officer

Ministry of Customs and Revenue

Samoa

Public Finance Program (’08)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Please tell us about your career path so far. What is your area of specialization and how did you come to work in this area?

My career journey has led me to specialize in Customs and Revenue administration. Interestingly, my initial aspirations were far from this field; I had always envisioned working in the Ministry of Finance in roles related to Economics and Finance.

 

However, fate had other plans for me. In January 2003, I was assigned to the Samoa Customs Department by the Public Service Commission to serve as a Post Clearance Audit Officer. Coincidentally, that same year witnessed the merger of Customs and Inland Revenue, resulting in the establishment of the Ministry for Revenue.

 

In the past 20 years, I've taken on various roles within the Ministry. I worked in the Post Clearance Audit (PCA) Training Unit, where I had the privilege to coordinate the Oceania Customs Organization Annual Conference held in Samoa. I also served as a Project Officer for the Inland Revenue Institutional Strengthening Project for a two-year period.

 

In 2012, I was promoted to the position of Principal Customer Service Officer within the Inland Revenue Service and was further promoted to the position of Assistant Chief Executive Officer in the Taxpayer Service Division. However, in December of the same year, I returned to Customs to take charge of the Customs Modernization Project and was appointed as the Assistant Chief Executive Officer of Risk and Compliance.

 

This journey continued as I assumed the role of Deputy CEO for Customs in 2019, and my career progression culminated in April 2023 when I was appointed as the CEO for the Ministry.

 

Throughout these years, I have built my career around Customs and Tax administration, and I am proud to have dedicated my professional life to these areas.

 

 

You have just been promoted to Chief Executive Officer for the Ministry of Customs and Revenue. Congratulations! Please tell us about your main roles and responsibilities.

As the Chief Executive Officer for the Ministry of Customs and Revenue, my primary responsibility is to offer high-level strategic and policy advice to the Cabinet through our Minister. I oversee the management of 12 divisions within the Ministry, which comprise 3 divisions dedicated to Inland Revenue (Tax), 3 for Customs, and 6 providing Support Services.

 

A crucial aspect of my role in this position is to lead the Ministry's restructure and functional reform efforts. This involves finalizing the setup of two Ministries and ensuring that all the necessary legal, policy, and procedural frameworks are in place, particularly for Customs and Tax operations.

 

Overall, my role as CEO involves providing strategic direction, managing diverse divisions, and driving essential reforms to enhance the Ministry's operations and achieve its objectives in customs and revenue administration.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

In your current capacity, what do you see as the main opportunities and challenges for Samoa over the course of the next five to ten years?

One of the significant challenges we will face is the limitation of resources, both in terms of finances and the number of skilled personnel available for technical Customs and Tax work. This constraint could potentially impact the efficiency and effectiveness of our operations.

 

However, amidst these challenges, there are opportunities for growth and improvement. The ongoing work on the World Trade Organization's Trade Facilitation Agreement (WTO TFA), continuous developments in the World Customs Organization's Revised Kyoto Convention (WCO RKC), and the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development's (OECD) initiatives related to tax provide avenues for capacity building and staff development. Engaging in assessments under these conventions and collaborative efforts will greatly assist our modernization endeavors, ensuring that our staff is equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills to adapt to evolving international standards and best practices. This way, we can overcome the challenges and make the most of the opportunities to enhance our customs and revenue administration in Samoa.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

What are some of the biggest challenges you face in your work? And what have been the most interesting or rewarding aspects of your career thus far?

In my current role, one of the most prominent challenges revolves around effectively managing the workload and fostering the commitment of the Ministry, especially in alignment with various Government initiatives. Moreover, the transition to a new government has introduced new priorities that require careful synchronization and support.

 

At the same time, the most rewarding and enriching aspect of my career thus far is the chance to lead and spearhead key initiatives, particularly in the realm of Customs operations. I find immense reward in advancing projects that promote Coordinated Border Management and facilitate inter-agency collaboration in intelligence and enforcement activities. These efforts not only contribute to the enhanced efficiency of customs processes but also strengthen the overall security and effectiveness of our border management systems.

 

What led you to GRIPS? What is the most important thing you got out of your studies, and how has your experience at GRIPS prepared you for future endeavors?

My involvement in Customs work led me to GRIPS. I applied for the WCO scholarship, which I was fortunate to receive. I am deeply thankful to both the WCO and GRIPS for this invaluable opportunity.

 

Navigating life away from my family for an extended period and engaging in studies at GRIPS contributed significantly to building my self-confidence and motivation. I learned to manage my personal and financial resources independently, while immersing myself in academic pursuits. Coping with Japan's winter climate and exploring and enjoying Japan in various ways were enriching experiences I cherish.

 

Furthermore, GRIPS has taught me essential lessons, emphasizing the vitality of passion in every endeavor. My passion for Customs work, coupled with the knowledge gained from studying International Customs Law pushed me to build a career within the Customs field.

 

This unique blend of academic knowledge and personal growth has been pivotal in shaping my journey and accomplishments in the realm of Customs administration.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Have you had any involvement, professional or otherwise, with Japan since your graduation?

Being the sole graduate of GRIPS in the island, I have been approached by JICA (Japan International Cooperation Agency) for insights regarding my journey to GRIPS and my overall experience there. Serving as a point of contact, I have shared information about how I gained admission to GRIPS and the nature of my educational experience. This involvement has extended to my role as a contact person for scholars funded by JICA, contributing to the continuity of knowledge exchange and fostering a connection between my region and Japan.

 

How do you maintain a balance between your work and the rest of your life? And what is your favorite thing to do when you are not working?

Maintaining a balance between work and personal life has been possible for me through diligent time management. Although I was once immersed in work, especially while being a member of the Management Team of the Customs Modernization Project from 2012 to 2016, I experienced a transformation after participating in a work-life balance leadership program that served as an awakening.

 

Since then, I have managed to sustain this equilibrium and prioritize aspects beyond work. When I'm not working, I cherish spending quality time with my husband, parents, and six children. This connection with my family is deeply fulfilling and enables me to recharge and find joy in the moments spent together.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

What are some of your fondest memories of your time spent at GRIPS? And what do you miss about Japan?

One of my most cherished memories from my time at GRIPS is the experience of skiing during the winter season with fellow students from the Public Finance Program. It was my first encounter with such a significant amount of snow, and the joy of that moment remains etched in my mind. I often wish for the opportunity to relive that experience, and I've even added it to my list of activities to share with my children someday.

 

Moreover, my memories of GRIPS are filled with fondness. The camaraderie I developed with my fellow students, the unwavering support and care provided by the administrative staff, the enriching cultural exchanges, and the chance I had to present my own culture before departing from Japan are all unforgettable aspects of my time at GRIPS.

 

If you could give one piece of advice to anyone considering studying at GRIPS what would it be?

If you're contemplating studying at GRIPS, my key piece of advice would be to select a field of study that aligns with your passion. When your studies resonate with your interests and enthusiasm, your time at GRIPS will be immensely valuable and rewarding.

 

How would you like to maintain involved with the School? What do you expect from GRIPS as an alumnus and do you have any suggestions on how to further utilize the GRIPS alumni network?

I intend to stay engaged with the school by maintaining communication with GRIPS and participating actively in the Alumni network. My expectation as an alumnus is to be consistently informed and involved, which I'm thankful for as GRIPS has been diligent in reaching out to me and keeping me updated.