StarKist's next chapter: a deep-dive with the new plant manager
The new plant manager of StarKist's American Samoa facility discusses operations, workforce numbers, sustainability commitments, and the plant's role in the territory's economy.
AC
Andrew Choi
Plant Manager, StarKist Samoa
Interview with
Talatala Le Ta‘ui
Published
April 5, 2026
Duration
1:08:44
Embedded interview · Watch on YouTube · Watch on Facebook
In this extended sit-down, Andrew Choi walks through some of the most pressing issues facing American Samoa — speaking candidly about challenges, priorities, and the way forward for the territory.
The interview does not shy away from the harder questions, and Andrew addresses recent public discussion, criticism, and the specific concerns raised by community members across the territory.
The conversation ranges from immediate operational challenges to longer-term strategy — offering a rare extended window into the thinking of one of the territory’s key public figures.
Key Quotes
"Every dollar the federal government sends should be traceable. The people deserve to know where it lands — and when it doesn't arrive, why."
— On federal grant transparency · 12:34
"The people of this territory have waited long enough. We owe them not just promises, but accountability and results."
— On public accountability · 38:22
Topics Discussed
- 02:14Opening — the state of the territory
- 08:44FY26 appropriations and the Fono
- 15:02Federal funding and grant transparency
- 22:51Infrastructure: roads, ports, ferry
- 31:08The Manu'a transportation question
- 38:22LBJ Hospital and off-island referrals
- 47:30Education funding and the teacher shortage
- 55:14Public safety and patrol staffing
- 01:02:08Cross-strait: Samoa relations
- 01:08:302026 election outlook
Tags
BusinessAmerican SamoaFY26GovernmentPublic Interest
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