I Liheslaturan Guåhan finds that Guam has a lengthy history of reciprocal intraregional relationships. These relationships have been part of the traditional methodology for surviving and thriving for peoples within the Mariana Islands, Southeast Asia, and Micronesia. These relationships have expanded access to resources; built up traditional economies; disseminated knowledge, skills, and traditions; and ensured survival in the face of a range of natural and other challenges that are a part of living within our region.

Though our regional ties have changed over the centuries, they are still with us. At different times we have been part of the same colonial administration or national families, marine and terrestrial species migrate between our borders, food and goods are exchanged, expertise is shared, and we lend helping hands when confronted with typhoons and other challenges that sweep through our region.

There are many examples of intraregional activities that currently exist. Guam serves as an economic hub and storehouse for the region in many ways. Various types of agricultural products are imported from Luta (Rota), as are fish from Palau, pepper and sakau powder from Pohnpei, and other foodstuffs from throughout the region. Environmentally-friendly crafted products are brought here from Yap, Kosrae, the Marshall Islands, and elsewhere in the region. Each area and its population have specific dynamics and characteristics that potentially serve as both resources and markets for goods.

It is, therefore, the intent of I Liheslaturan Guåhan to establish the Guam Intraregional Commerce Commission to build on this lengthy, beneficial tradition and the region’s wide range of resources and needs as a means to strengthen regional resiliency and rebuild and re-envision our economy in the face of the current global pandemic era. Such efforts would also have the potential for additional benefits such as uplifting the entire region’s economies, strengthening our food security, enhancing zero-waste efforts, and improving aspects of our health care. Additionally, there are the beginnings of a manufacturing base in the outer islands based on environmentally-friendly products while here onGuam, similar initiatives to create a green economy are likewise developing.