Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — The Senate Select Investigative Committee (SSIC) continues its hearing on the importation of 47 vehicles from China that were seized by Customs for noncompliance with U.S. transportation and safety regulations.

The second SSIC hearing is scheduled today, Wednesday Jan. 07, 2026.

According to the Department of the Treasury, these vehicles do not meet U.S. Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards, which also apply to American Samoa, a U.S. territory. As a result, these vehicles cannot be operated, registered, or used on the roadways of American Samoa or anywhere else in the United States.

The government initially intended to auction the seized vehicles; however, a court order has temporarily prohibited their sale.

The SSIC's first hearing on this matter was held last year, in October, focusing on customs-related issues, including border control and excise taxes on imported goods. This follows concerns regarding vehicles, a plane, and merchandise that were released without full payment of excise taxes.

At that time, Juliano Falaniko, Chief of Customs, testified on border control and excise taxes on imported goods. The hearing was convened after discrepancies were identified, including the release of vehicles, a plane, and merchandise without full payment of the required excise taxes.

Senator Togiola Tulafono, Chairman of the SSIC, requested an explanation of the necessary paperwork for a cargo plane upon its arrival in the territory. Falaniko clarified that when a cargo plane lands, it is provided with a manifest that must match the documentation the customer presents when collecting their cargo or packages.

He emphasized that all details must be consistent, from the recipient's name to the cargo contents. Any discrepancies may result in Customs seizing the shipment and holding it until the proper paperwork is submitted. This process applies to freight cargo and shipping containers. However, for USPS shipments, the procedure differs. Customs escorts the cargo to the post office and leaves it there until customers pick up their packages. At that time, Customs inspects the packages before they are dispatched from the post office.

Falaniko noted that USPS has contracted a company to transport mail from the airport to the post office. Regarding shipping containers, companies are prohibited from opening them without a customs agent present. He noted that if any issues arise, such as the discovery of illegal contraband, the shipment will be sealed, and a full investigation will be conducted by Customs.

Falaniko stated that two cargo planes operate directly from the mainland, but there are no direct flights from any Asian regions. He explained that goods imported from China typically route through New Zealand, Fiji, and Australia before reaching their final destination. Additionally, Hawaiian Airlines transports cargo and express shipments, while Pacific Air Cargo handles regular mail. Local shipping companies also bring cargo via Apia.

Falaniko clarified that excise taxes vary by item, including cigarettes, beer, certain merchandise, and vehicles. After completing the declaration form, the amount of excise tax due will be issued. Under the law, cargo cannot be released unless the excise taxes are paid in full. Only the Treasurer may grant a grace period for businesses and members of the public, allowing them to collect their cargo and settle their payments.