Prices for key goods and services including food, mobile phones, and cigarettes increased during the March quarter of 2025, according to the latest Consumer Price Index (CPI) report from the Vanuatu Bureau of Statistics.
The overall CPI for Vanuatu rose by 0.4% compared to the previous quarter, with the largest increase recorded in Luganville at +1%, followed by Lenakel at +0.7%, and Port Vila at +0.3%.
The biggest price increases were recorded in:
- Food: +1.7%
- Alcohol and Tobacco: +1.1%
- Communication (including mobile phones): +4.2%
However, some categories saw price drops:
- Clothing and Footwear: -4.9%
- Education: -4.4%
- Household Supplies: -2.7%
- Other declines were also noted in recreation, housing utilities, and health.
When compared to the same quarter in 2024, Vanuatu’s overall CPI actually dropped by -0.6%, largely due to price decreases in electricity, school fees, repair materials, and washing soap.
- Port Vila: -1.3%
- Luganville: +1.5%
- Lenakel: +3.9%
These figures are released quarterly to track how prices for everyday goods and services are changing over time. Price data is collected from supermarkets, shops, transport providers, and other service points across the country.
The next CPI update is expected in August.
