Despite recent changes passed in Parliament removing compulsory insurance requirements for trucks, insurance remains essential for tour operators in Vanuatu’s tourism industry.

That is according to Tourism Office Development Officer Martiano Mahe during an interview with VBTC News.

Mr Mahe said insurance remains one of the key requirements for tour operators because it helps protect businesses while also ensuring visitors feel safe during tourism activities.

“Cruise ship agents now, whenever they make inquiries with tour operators, they ask about insurance coverage, so insurance is a must. Even though Parliament has passed changes saying trucks may not require insurance, in tourism it remains compulsory as part of the criteria for obtaining permits for tour operators and anyone wanting to operate a tourism business,” Mr Mahe said.

Tour operator in Port Vila, Sammy Brown Niumataiwalu, also shared concerns about the Government’s decision to remove compulsory insurance requirements for public transport vehicles.

He said insurance remains important, especially when accidents happen and vehicle owners need support for repairs or damages.

“Government can find another alternative. Maybe one year drivers pay full insurance, and if they do not have any accidents the following year they pay reduced insurance. That could create a win-win situation for drivers, owners and operators. For us in tourism, insurance is compulsory because without it, cruise ship guests will not join our tours if vehicles are not insured,” Mr Niumataiwalu said.

He appealed to Government to consider alternative solutions that would support both operators and vehicle owners while maintaining safety standards.

Although Parliament has changed the law to remove compulsory insurance requirements for some vehicles, the Tourism Office says insurance will continue to remain a mandatory requirement for all registered tour operators in Vanuatu.