adminadminMinister Wilson Urges Stronger Domestic Food Production Before Turning to Exports
Vanuatu must significantly strengthen its local food production systems before the country can realistically discuss expanding agricultural exports, according to the Minister of Agriculture, Livestock, Forestry and Biosecurity (MALFB), Hon. Ian Wilson.
Delivering remarks at the opening of the First National Commercial Commodity Forum in Luganville, Hon. Minister Wilson highlighted that Vanuatu remains highly vulnerable during natural disasters because it depends heavily on imported emergency supplies, especially dry food items. He explained that this over-reliance on foreign products not only weakens food security but has contributed to widespread nutritional problems and rising cases of non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Current figures show that around 15% of people living with disabilities are now linked to the national NCD burden.
The Minister stressed that the country’s agricultural output is simply not sufficient to support communities when crises occur.
“We are not producing enough pigs, chickens, goats, root crops, beef, or fish to meet our own needs during emergencies. Farmers must increase production, and government has a responsibility to provide the support systems that make this possible,” he said.
While the government has long prioritised cattle development, Minister Wilson said a more balanced and comprehensive strategy must now be created for small livestock such as pigs, poultry and goats, as well as for major staple crops. Strengthening these sectors, he said, is essential for long-term food resilience and economic stability.
The forum, which runs from 1–10 October 2025 in Luganville before shifting to Port Vila from 13–18 October, will review current agricultural policies across all commodity groups. It will also establish new strategic directions for the next five years, ahead of the conclusion of the National Sustainable Development Plan (NSDP) in 2030. Outcomes from the forum will form the basis of a national roadmap to be submitted to the Council of Ministers for endorsement.
These strategies will later be presented to development partners in early 2026, with the intention of ensuring donor assistance aligns with Vanuatu’s priorities rather than externally driven agendas.
Minister Wilson concluded his remarks by noting that the country’s biggest challenge has shifted.
“In the past, securing markets was the major difficulty. Today, the real issue is production. Farmers need government support – and government equally depends on farmers – if we want a stronger, more resilient Vanuatu.”
