THE Department of Commerce, along with the Department of Labor, will help in the “transition” of Duty Free Shoppers T Galleria Saipan employees in response to the announcement that the luxury retailer will close on April 30, 2025.
In an email to Variety on Wednesday, Commerce Secretary Remedio Mafnas said her department “is actively supporting the transition for DFS employees following their recent closure announcement.”
She did not provide specifics but added that they are “committed to ensuring economic stability and providing extensive support to all affected by this change.”
She said their “focus remains on safeguarding the economic interests of our community and assisting in a smooth transition. We are actively working at how to present solutions in the transition of such a footprint that has been a community and economic anchor.”
Mafnas said Commerce “is dedicated to fostering a business environment that attracts and retains vital employers to sustain the economic vitality of CNMI.”
She said, “In light of DFS’ announcement, we are intensifying our efforts to stabilize other local economic landmarks and maintain the economic fabric of our community through strategic support and adaptive measures.”
Her department’s “commitment to enhancing infrastructure continues; we are directing support to improvements that benefit remaining major employers and attract new business to thrive in the Commonwealth,” she added.
“We are utilizing data and insights from economic indicators to better understand and quickly respond to the needs of businesses affected by DFS’ closure, ensuring targeted and effective economic support,” Mafnas said without elaborating.
She said their “efforts to mitigate the impact of DFS’ departure extend beyond governmental action. We are enhancing collaborations with various sectors to support a resilient economic ecosystem and ensure comprehensive support for the affected employees.”
Mafnas said, “DFS’ closure impacts our local economy significantly, particularly in terms of employment and the vibrancy of our tourist district. We are committed to vigorous job preservation and community support initiatives to address this void.”
Mafnas said as they “adapt to the economic challenges posed by DFS’ departure, our strategies are being recalibrated to ensure the stability of other large retailers and employers in CNMI.”
She added that their “focus on economic recovery and growth remains steadfastly inclusive, aiming to provide opportunities across all community segments. Supporting the transition post-DFS’ closure is crucial to maintaining a robust and diverse economic landscape.”
In a statement announcing its closure on Wednesday, DFS said it was “the result of challenging economic conditions, compounded by the departure of luxury brands, which have significantly impacted on the stores’ appeal and profitability. Despite our best efforts to continue the operations, the circumstances around the current landscape have made it unsustainable to continue.”
CNMI tourism arrivals and hotel occupancy rates remain far below pre-pandemic levels.
