The Government says it is looking to strengthen support for Ni-Vanuatu businesses and local industries, following this year’s Vanuatu Made event.

Speaking at the closing of the two-day event, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance Johnny Koanapo said Government spent VT10 million to organise the event, describing it as an investment in building confidence in locally produced goods and the ability of Ni-Vanuatu to turn raw materials into finished products.

“Government has spent VT10 million to organise this two-day Vanuatu Made event. It may not be a large amount of money, but it has certainly made an impact on our mindset and confidence in what our people can do.”

More support for local industries

Koanapo said Government is also looking at more than VT677 million with development partners to support local industries.

He said the funding would support sectors including manufacturing and other areas of economic activity, while giving Ni-Vanuatu greater opportunities to develop their skills and businesses.

The Deputy Prime Minister also pointed to existing Government support through the Industry Development Fund, which provides assistance to Ni-Vanuatu who may not otherwise have access to bank financing.

He said Government will continue providing funding through the Ministry of Trade, particularly the Department of Industry, as well as support from the Vanuatu Bureau of Standards.

Focus on packaging and product standards

Koanapo said Government support needs to go beyond helping businesses produce goods and should also help them prepare products for the market.

He highlighted the need for better packaging, labelling and scientific analysis, including nutritional information for products where applicable.

He said this would allow consumers to better understand what they are buying while helping local producers meet market requirements.

“Government needs to come inside and help you with packaging, help you with labelling and help you with everything we can do, then let you fly with your full potential.”

Proposal for a central distribution warehouse

Another proposal raised by the Deputy Prime Minister was the creation of a central warehouse where products from across Vanuatu could be brought together for distribution.

He said such a facility could potentially house products including taro, cassava and banana flours, virgin coconut oil, nangai oil, tamanu oil and sandalwood oil.

The proposed facility could act as a central distribution point, allowing locally made products to be supplied to retail and wholesale outlets.

Koanapo said the proposal could be considered as part of the next budget process if a submission is developed by the Department of Industry.

Government highlights growth in local production

Koanapo said the range of products displayed at Vanuatu Made showed the innovation and creativity of local producers.

He highlighted how locally grown materials such as taro, cassava and banana are being processed into products with longer shelf lives, creating opportunities for value addition.

He also referred to Government-supported banking facilities, saying three banks are now participating in programmes intended to support the Government’s economic transformation agenda.

Concern over AI-generated music

The Deputy Prime Minister also raised concerns about the impact of AI-generated music on local musicians.

He said Vanuatu has young musicians with unique voices and styles that need to be protected as AI-generated music becomes more common.

Koanapo said the Government would support legislation aimed at protecting the music industry and the rights of musicians.

He also announced that VBTC is expected to receive an official Government directive concerning AI-generated music.

“VBTC will receive an official directive from the Government to stop playing AI-generated music, and any Government outlet should not play AI-generated music, but should play the music of the natural voices of our young people.”

The statement was made in his capacity as the minister responsible for state-owned enterprises, which includes VBTC.

Government support for Vanuatu Made

Koanapo said the Government would continue to support Ni-Vanuatu producers and businesses, with Vanuatu Made providing a platform for local products, creativity and entrepreneurship.

The Deputy Prime Minister said the Government’s role was to provide support while allowing local businesses and producers to develop their products and reach their full potential.

Photo credits: Vanuatu Made FB Page