Port Vila CBD closure affects tourism vendors at Mystery Island
January 19, 2025 11:22 pm | Posted in Business News | Share now TwitterFacebook
By Terence Malapa.
Tourism vendors on Mystery Island, located to the south of Vanuatu, are experiencing extensive challenges due to the ongoing lockdown of Port Vila’s Central Business District (CBD) following the devastating earthquake on December 17, 2024.
Tourism vendors have had difficulties accessing products to sell, as Port Vila—an essential hub for importing goods—remains inaccessible.
Davina Vira, the Area Administrator (AA) of the Aneityum Area Council based in Anelcauhat Village, conveyed her sympathy toward the affected vendors, both on Mystery Island and in Port Vila, acknowledging the financial difficulties they are facing.
Despite the challenges faced by the vendors, Ms Vira said that tourists arriving on cruise ships are still able to enjoy their visit to Mystery Island. She noted that the handicraft vendors, although impacted by the lack of products, are still offering their goods and engaging with tourists. Additionally, visitors can take part in various tourism activities and experience the natural beauty and resources of the island, which remains one of the top tourist attractions in the region.
This reflects the resilience of the tourism industry on Mystery Island, where, even in the face of logistical difficulties, the island’s natural appeal and local offerings continue to captivate visitors.
AA Vira mentioned that another challenge vendors on Mystery Island are facing is the disruption of banking services. Due to inadequate cash in the local bank, vendors are unable to exchange their dollar currency for Vatu, the local currency.
This disruption has created an additional layer of financial difficulty for the vendors, as it hampers their ability to conduct transactions effectively.
The AA confirmed that, despite the challenges, there has been a high number of cruise ships visiting Mystery Island since December. This continued influx of tourists is a positive sign for the local tourism industry, as it shows that the island remains a popular destination, even amid the difficulties caused by the earthquake and the lockdown of Port Vila.
The consistent arrival of cruise ships helps provide a vital flow of visitors, supporting the local economy and offering vendors some opportunity for business, even if there are logistical hurdles they must overcome.
