Port Vila Central Market reopens

July 28, 2025 10:35 pm | Posted in Business News | Share now TwitterFacebook

By Adorina Massing.

The Port Vila Central Market officially reopened yesterday, Monday 28 July, following seven months of closure due to structural damage caused by the 17 December earthquake last year.

Market Manager Sacha Watt acknowledged the presence and support of Lady Mayor, the Minister of Internal Affairs, and their teams during the reopening ceremony. He also extended his gratitude to the hardworking market staff and especially to the vendors or mothers for their dedication in making the reopening possible.

“The central market is once again safe and open to serve the people of Port Vila,” Mr. Watt confirmed, noting that although many sections were severely damaged and some rooms demolished, the main structure has been repaired and cleared for use.

Watt assured vendors that table fees remain unchanged for now, as operations return to normal.

He also addressed mothers who sell cooked foods at the market, asking for their patience while his team focuses on re-establishing the sale of greens. “Give us one to two weeks to stabilise the sales of fresh produce,” he said. “Once that’s done, we can identify a proper space for the slow food vendors.”

He explained that repair works on the food preparation and restaurant area are still pending, as they are awaiting the arrival of replacement parts from overseas. “There are delays in ordering and receiving materials needed to rebuild the cooking area,” he said.

Over 30 vendors turned up for the reopening day, and Watt expects the number to grow steadily in the coming days as more people learn that the market has resumed operations.

The Port Vila Central Market remains one of the capital’s most vital economic and cultural hubs, supporting hundreds of vendors and providing fresh produce to residents and visitors alike.