The PHAMA Plus Program is set to conclude in 2026 after 15 years of supporting Vanuatu’s agriculture sector, particularly in the kava and cocoa industries.
The program, backed by the Governments of Australia and New Zealand, has worked to address market challenges, improve export standards and strengthen quality control systems for local producers and exporters.
PHAMA initially operated from 2011 to 2018 before transitioning into PHAMA Plus, which has continued from 2018 to 2026. Over the years, the program adopted a market systems development approach, working closely with farmers, exporters and government agencies to improve productivity and market access.
Country Manager of PHAMA Plus, Emily Tumukon, said kava and cocoa were selected due to their strong economic potential for Vanuatu.
She explained that kava remains one of Vanuatu’s largest export earners, contributing significant revenue to the country. Cocoa, while smaller at the beginning of the program, showed strong growth potential following assessments conducted by the team.
Through PHAMA Plus, farmers received support in areas such as fermentation, drying, storage and processing techniques to improve product quality and meet international standards. Equipment such as fermentation boxes, dryers and processing machines were also provided to boost production capacity.
One cocoa producer said the support helped him improve quality control and increase demand for his chocolate products. A kava exporter also confirmed that additional machinery provided through the program allowed his company to double production output.
Director General of the Ministry of Agriculture, Timothy Tumukon, said although the program is ending, its impact will continue to be felt across the sector. He noted that the government will continue supporting farmers and exporters through other initiatives and remains open to future collaboration with Australia and New Zealand.
Representatives from both Australia and New Zealand reaffirmed their commitment to Vanuatu’s agriculture sector, highlighting the importance of farming in strengthening livelihoods, trade and economic resilience, especially during natural disasters.
As PHAMA Plus concludes, Vanuatu’s agriculture sector now looks ahead to new opportunities to further strengthen export markets and build on the progress achieved over the past 15 years.
