The Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, Forestry and Biosecurity (MALFB) will host a series of national forums in Santo and Port Vila over the coming weeks, bringing together farmers, processors, exporters and key government agencies to map out the future of Vanuatu’s productive sector.

Director General Timothy Tumukon confirmed that the discussions will begin with forums on cattle and livestock in Luganville from 2–3 October. A dedicated kava forum will run from 7–8 October, with a cocoa forum on 9–10 October, also in Santo. The discussions then move to Port Vila with a root crops forum on 13 October and forestry on 14 October.

“These forums are especially for us to sit down with stakeholders, farmers, processors, exporters and other agencies who deal with these commodities to discuss the issues affecting the industries and plan how we can grow these sectors together,” Mr. Tumukon said.

The consultations will also involve the Ministry of Trade and Commerce, Internal Affairs, Finance, and the Prime Minister’s Office to ensure that government support aligns with farmers’ needs and the ministry’s new Corporate Plan 2025–2030.

The DG explained that the plan is tied to the government’s “island focus” initiative, which aims to increase production by building on the natural strengths of each island. For example, Maewo will specialise in taro and kava production, while Santo and Malo will be developed for water taro, kava, and spices.

“Our goal is to transition farmers from semi-commercial activities — where they consume half and sell half — into full commercial farming. We want to see farmers become business people in livestock and agriculture,” Mr. Tumukon said.

He added that the agriculture permit system, rolled out earlier this year, would support this shift by recognising different categories of farmers, processors, island traders and exporters.

Mr. Tumukon stressed that increasing production is essential not only to supply local markets but also to expand exports, supporting the government’s vision of developing Luganville into an economic hub.

“These forums will help us put proper five-year plans in place that everyone understands — ministries, the private sector and farmers alike — so that when we move forward, we know exactly who is doing what and how government support is delivered,” he said.

The series of consultations is expected to strengthen coordination across the agriculture, livestock and forestry departments, with support from biosecurity and trade agencies, to boost food security, exports and value-added processing.