The Government, through the Department of Industry, has invested VT 1.1 million in the two-day Torba Mini Vanuatu Made Trade Show, which took place last week on Motalava Island.

Torba Development Officer for the Department of Industry, Jeff Wovei, confirmed the investment to VBTC News.

“The Department of Industry, through the Government, invested 1.1 million vatu to run the event for two days, and another 600,000 vatu from TVET went towards supporting other programs,” he said.

Of the VT 1.1 million, VT 600,000 was spent on logistics for participants, while VT 400,000 covered entertainment costs.

The main goal of hosting major events in provincial and area councils, Mr. Wovei explained, is to prepare farmers, producers, and processors to showcase their products.

“The reason for holding this event in Torba is to prepare farmers and producers to attend the national Vanuatu Made Week in September in Port Vila. The department helps identify potential participants and provides training on labelling, packaging, and other skills.”

Mr. Wovei said hosting events in area councils plays a key role in growing the local economy.

Looking ahead, the Department is considering increasing the budget for next year’s Torba Made Trade Show, after this year’s high turnout showed that current funding was insufficient.

“Last year’s Torba trade show in Sola had a budget of only 500,000 vatu, and it was not very successful. This year’s budget was increased, which attracted around 45 participants, but the actual number of attendees was double that. The Director of the Department has confirmed that next year the budget will increase to 4 million vatu.”

Mr. Wovei also confirmed that next year’s Torba Made Trade Show will be hosted alongside PSC Day on Motalava.