First Vanuatu-Australia Business Week to boost trade

March 10, 2025 9:55 pm | Posted in Business News | Share now TwitterFacebook

By Nicholas Mwai.

The first-ever Vanuatu-Australia Business Week has commenced at Warwick Le Lagon in Port Vila, marking a significant step toward fostering economic collaboration between the two nations.

The event brought together government and business representatives to discuss strategies for bolstering Vanuatu’s economic growth and trade opportunities.

Australian High Commissioner to Vanuatu, Max Willis, and Vanuatu’s Minister of Trade and Commerce, Samson Samsen, inaugurated the Business Week.

The event features a series of workshops and forums focusing on key economic sectors, including tourism, exports, and business development.

One of the major highlights of the week is the Australia-Vanuatu Business Forum, hosted by the Australia-Pacific Islands Business Council.

Additionally, a PACER Plus event, spearheaded by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation, and External Trade, will explore trade opportunities under the regional economic agreement.

The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade is also organizing ‘Big Meet,’ an initiative aimed at connecting local suppliers with Australian development projects.

During the opening ceremony, High Commissioner Willis emphasized Australia’s role as Vanuatu’s largest economic partner and reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the nation’s development.

 “Australia is here to help Vanuatu’s economic development, and this week reflects our commitment to listening to government and business stakeholders in Vanuatu, including the Prime Minister and his ministers, on how we can be the best partner for Vanuatu,” he stated.

Australia remains the primary source of private-sector investment in Vanuatu, playing a crucial role in supporting businesses and farmers to enhance productivity and explore export opportunities. High Commissioner Willis expressed hope that Business Week would yield actionable strategies to boost tourism, enhance exports, and drive economic recovery in Vanuatu.

“This initiative should result in clear actions to grow tourist numbers, strengthen trade, and improve economic prospects for Vanuatu,” Willis added.

The Vanuatu-Australia Business Week will run end of this week.