The Second National Trade Development Committee of 2026, to Strengthens Coordination for Trade, Investment and Economic Growth
The National Trade Development Committee (NTDC) convened its second meeting of 2026 on the 16th of September 2026, the Cocomo Resort, Port Vila, bringing together representatives from government agencies, the private sector, civil society organisations, and development partners to discuss current development priorities med at advancing Vanuatu's trade and economic development agenda.
The meeting was officially opened by the Minister responsible for Trade and Commerce, Hon. Robson Iavro, who called for stronger collaboration and practical solutions to increase production, boost exports, reduce the cost of doing business, and create more economic opportunities for ni-Vanuatu businesses, farmers, cooperatives, and value -added producers.
In his opening address, Minister Iavro challenged stakeholders to focus on how government policies and decisions can deliver tangible benefits for the people of Vanuatu.
“How can we work together to increase production? How can we reduce the cost of doing business? How can we increase exports and reduce our dependence on imports? How can we create more opportunities for our businesses, farmers, cooperatives, and entrepreneurs?” the Minister stated.
The Minister emphasized that the ultimate measure of success is ensuring that government initiatives translate into real economic opportunities, employment, and improved livelihoods for communities across the country.
The members had the opportunity to receive and review updates on the number of key related programmes and initiatives that were presented by key sector representatives, made on previous NTDC decisions and received updates on a number of key trade-related programmes and initiatives that contribute to Vanuatu's economic growth and resilience.
Key discussions included:
- Progress towards the operationalisation of the National Santo Packhouse;
- Updates on the Sandalwood Sector Development Initiative;
- The proposed Coconut Oil Stability Fund;
- Current Tourism Programme activities and priorities;
- Proposed Terms of Reference for the Ferronickel Slag Working Group;
- Development partner support and cooperation programmes;
- Progress under the PACER Plus Programme;
- Updates on bilateral trade negotiations with China;
- The implementation of past decision
- Updates on ongoing Aid for Trade projects;
- Progress on the Knowledge Management and Information System (KIMS) Phase 2 and lastly, Progress on the review of trade, Business and commerce Policy 2050 – 2023.
At the meeting, members of the committee have the liberty to exchange views on key challenges and opportunities affecting Vanuatu's productive sectors and identified priority actions to strengthen implementation, improve coordination among stakeholders, and enhance the effectiveness of national trade initiatives.
The meeting reaffirmed the importance of collaboration between Government, the private sector, civil society, and development partners in achieving sustainable and inclusive economic growth. Participants highlighted the need to continue supporting initiatives that promote trade, investment, value addition, market access, entrepreneurship, and export development.
As Vanuatu continues to pursue its national development objectives, the NTDC remains a critical platform for dialogue, coordination, and informed decision-making, ensuring that trade policies and programmes contribute to increased economic opportunities and improved livelihoods for all ni-Vanuatu.
The Ministry of Trade and Commerce extends its appreciation to all NTDC members, observers, development partners, and stakeholders for their continued commitment and contribution to Vanuatu's trade and economic development.
About VAMU
The Vanuatu Aid-for-Trade Management Unit (VAMU) sits within the Ministry of Trade and Commerce. It coordinates Aid-for-Trade funding and supports trade governance across government, working with development partners to support inclusive and resilient economic development for all ni-Vanuatu.