Vanuatu automates PACER Plus Declaration of Origin
February 26, 2026 9:48 pm | Posted in Business News | Share now TwitterFacebook
Vanuatu has officially automated the Declaration of Origin (DOO) process under the Pacific Agreement on Closer Economic Relations Plus (PACER Plus) through the Vanuatu Electronic Single Window (VeSW) System – Preferential Certificate of Origin Module.
The PACER Plus Vanuatu Office confirmed the development yesterday.
This reform modernises the way exporters access preferential tariff treatment under PACER Plus and represents an important step in Vanuatu’s trade facilitation and digital transformation agenda.
Under PACER Plus, goods originating in a member country are eligible for preferential tariff treatment, including zero import duties when entering Australia and New Zealand, both of which have already implemented full tariff liberalisation for PACER Plus Parties.
For Vanuatu exporters, access to these preferences depends on the correct completion and use of a DOO, in accordance with Chapter 3 – Rules of Origin and Verification Procedures and Annex 3-A requirements.
Until now, the DOO process in Vanuatu has been largely manual. Exporters or authorised representatives prepared Declarations using Word documents, PDFs, or invoice attachments, often re-entering data for each shipment and self-certifying compliance. This approach increased the risk of transcription errors, incorrect customs tariff codes (HS Codes), omissions of mandatory Annex 3-A information, and delays during customs clearance.
The PACER Plus Vanuatu Office says the new Preferential Certificate of Origin Module within the VeSW System automates the process by enforcing completion of all mandatory Annex 3-A fields, validating HS codes and origin criteria, allowing reusable exporter and product profiles, generating compliant Declarations electronically and instantly, and creating a centralised repository with clear audit trails.
By digitising the DOO, Vanuatu strengthens compliance, reduces administrative burden for exporters, and improves transparency and traceability. The system also allows online verification by importing Customs authorities and supports electronic documentation as permitted under PACER Plus.
This reform enables exporters and customs brokers to better utilise the PACER Plus trade agreement. Faster, more accurate documentation will support smoother clearance processes and increase confidence among trading partners.
The PACER Plus Vanuatu Office encourages all exporters, producers, and customs brokers trading with Australia and New Zealand to adopt the system.
This initiative demonstrates Vanuatu’s commitment to digital trade facilitation, regulatory compliance, and maximising the economic benefits of regional trade agreements.
