Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — The Environmental Health Services Division of the American Samoa Department of Health has recently taken significant steps to protect public health by shutting down two businesses and a government building for failing to comply with mandated health regulations.

The latest facility to close is the Port Administration's Airport Hangar Facility, excluding the VIP Lounge, which was shut down after a comprehensive health inspection on September 3, 2026. The inspection revealed serious deficiencies that failed to meet established sanitation and public health standards, requiring immediate action to mitigate potential public health risks.

In addition, last month, the American Samoa Department of Health's Environmental Health Services (ASDOH-EHS) ordered the immediate closure of the FM Mart Meat Room and its ice-making operations in Nu'uuli following a thorough inspection on August 31, 2026. The inspection uncovered multiple violations of public health protocols and sanitation regulations, posing an immediate and serious risk to public health and safety. The findings required a halt to all operations at the facility until the owners implemented corrective measures that health officials verified.

Moreover, Matai's Corporation was also found to be operating in violation of health and sanitation regulations during an inspection on August 27, 2026. The ASDOH-EHS reported that inspections of Hangar, FM Mart, and Matai’s Corporation revealed noncompliance with the sanitation and public health standards established in ASCA Title 25 and ASAC Title 25. These violations create environments that could jeopardize public health, so the facilities must cease operations until they address the identified issues and receive re-inspection approval.

The Department of Health operates under the authority granted by ASCA Title 25 - Health and Sanitation and ASAC Title 25 - Environmental Health Regulations, which allow it to close any facility found operating under unsafe or hazardous conditions. This regulatory action is crucial to safeguarding the well-being of customers and the broader community by ensuring all business operations meet required health standards.

The Department of Health has a legal obligation to protect the public from unsafe food, water, and environmental conditions, underscoring its commitment to consumer safety. This closure notice promotes transparency, increases public awareness of health violations, and prioritizes the safety and health of all community members.

To document the violations, the Department of Health has retained official inspection photos. Any photos released to the public will comply with legal and privacy protections, ensuring no individuals are identifiable.

The Environmental Health Services Division conducts routine inspections, responds to community complaints, and rigorously enforces public health laws to ensure all residents have access to safe, healthy environments. By maintaining these standards, the Division aims to foster a healthier community and protect public health.