Biosecurity Vanuatu officers from across the country are undergoing an intensive fumigation and treatment training, set to conclude this coming Friday. Funded with support from PHAMA PLUS and PACER Plus, the program is the first AFAS-accredited training in Vanuatu since 2014 and aims to strengthen officers’ skills in protecting the nation from exotic pests and diseases.

The program was delivered by the Biosecurity Authority of Fiji (BAF) as part of the Australian Fumigation Accreditation Scheme (AFAS), which supports Pacific nations to meet internationally recognised treatment standards—particularly those required for trade with Australia.

During the training, participating officers learned key technical skills including monitoring gas concentrations during fumigation, ensuring proper circulation of fumigants, and meeting strict standards for treating perishable goods and other commodities. Officers also underwent face-to-face interviews with treatment providers and Biosecurity field supervisors as part of their assessment.

Team Leader for Trade Facilitation and Compliance at Biosecurity Fiji, Mr. Ronald Ritest Prasad, highlighted the importance of the program for Vanuatu.

He noted that this is the second AFAS training delivered in the country since 2014.

“This training is very important for Vanuatu in relation to Biosecurity’s mission and vision to protect our borders from exotic pests and diseases. Officers must understand how to correctly calculate dosage rates and apply fumigation safely because these chemicals are toxic. The whole package—from start to finish—is about compliance and safety,” Mr. Prasad said.

After almost a decade without AFAS accreditation, Biosecurity Vanuatu and the Director General of MALFB, Mr. Timothy Tumukon, recognised an urgent need to revive and strengthen technical capacity within the department.

Participants will undergo both theoretical and practical assessments before receiving regionally recognised accreditation certificates, which will support their professional development and enhance the quality of fumigation services in Vanuatu.

The updated skills will enable Biosecurity Vanuatu to deliver safer, more efficient, and compliant fumigation operations, ensuring stronger protection of the country’s agriculture, environment, and trade pathways.