Fijian businesses target Vanuatu expansion amid export growth

Fijian businesses are exploring expansion and reinvestment opportunities in Vanuatu following a scoping mission hosted by the Vanuatu Foreign Investment Promotion Agency (VFIPA). The mission, which took place in late July 2026, involved Investment Fiji, government agencies, and private sector operators to identify cooperation in trade and investment.

Discussions focused on market conditions, supply chains, and regulatory processes. The delegation engaged with established Fiji-linked businesses, such as Punjas Vanuatu, across sectors including retail, manufacturing, agriculture, and food and beverage. VFIPA CEO Raymond Vuti noted the mission aims to translate strong economic connections into practical outcomes like investment facilitation and business linkages.

Separately, the Pacific Islands Export Survey 2026 Fiji Spotlight indicates that 72 percent of Fijian exporters expect revenue to increase over the next 12 months. While exporters show resilience and are utilizing new technologies and trade agreements, the survey highlights a significant rise in financial challenges. Approximately 67 percent of Fijian exporters reported difficulty accessing finance, up from 49 percent in 2024.