Seventh Annual Vanuatu Made Week Wraps Up in Port Vila
PORT VILA, Vanuatu – The Seventh Vanuatu Made Week concluded today after four days (23-26 September) of showcasing the very best of Vanuatu’s locally made products, crafts, and services. Bringing together micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), producers, and stakeholders from all six provinces, the event has become a flagship platform for promoting the creativity, innovation, and resilience of Vanuatu’s people. The Pacific Agreement on Closer Economic Relations Plus or PACER Plus is a Gold Sponsor of the event. This year the event featured a trade fair, the Vanuatu Made Toktok B2B Forum, a garments and textiles fashion show, All-Vanuatu-Made products cooking demonstrations by the Vanuatu Chef Association, and an awards night. Together, these activities provided an important space for producers to connect directly with domestic consumers and international buyers. Mr. Noel Kalo, Director of the Department of Industry, says that the event is about creating sustainable livelihoods. “Vanuatu Made Week is not just an exhibition, it’s an economic driver. By supporting this event, PACER Plus is helping our MSMEs tap into new markets, strengthen business networks, and reinforce the Vanuatu Made brand at home and abroad. It’s about creating sustainable livelihoods while proudly promoting what is authentically ours.” Mr. Noel Kalo, Director of the Department of Industry For many vendors, the opportunity to showcase their products to a larger audience was invaluable. Ms. Esmie Jimmy, owner of Green Forest Oils, a natural oil producer from Nguna Island, said: “This week I sold what I would normally sell in a month. But more importantly, I’ve connected with new buyers as well.” The PACER Plus Vanuatu National Coordinator, Mr. Michael Ligo, noted that supporting events like Vanuatu Made Week directly aligns with PACER Plus’s mission to strengthen trade and economic opportunities in Vanuatu. By helping local producers gain visibility, build networks, and access information, PACER Plus contributes to sustainable private sector growth while encouraging value addition export readiness. Ms. Esmie Jimmy (left), owner of Green Forest Oils, a natural oil producer from Nguna Island at the event. “Supporting Vanuatu Made Week matters because it’s not only about showcasing products, but it’s also about building confidence, creating opportunities, and ensuring that Vanuatu-made goods find their rightful place in both regional and global markets,” said Mr. Ligo. -ENDS- More articles like this one
Cultivating More Than Crops in Samoa
The first rays of sunlight hit the taro fields of Lefaga village in Samoa, and 33-year-old Kent Onesemo is already at work. The morning air is alive with low hum of a brush cutter, the chatter of farmhands, and the occasional call of cattle grazing nearby. It’s a familiar routine for Kent, a father of six who has learned that farming, like life, demands patience, grit and vision. “I have a full-time job,” Kent says, wiping sweat from his brow. “But it wasn’t enough to support my family. I knew I had to do something more.” Kent Onesemo at his farm in Lefaga, Samoa. Four years ago, he turned to farming, planting taro and raising cattle on six acres of land. What began as a side effort to ease financial strain soon grew into something bigger. After two years of supplying Samoa’s local markets, Kent ventured into exports. His very first month abroad brought in WST$12,000 (AU$6,700). “It was exciting but overwhelming,” he admits. “The demand was there, but I couldn’t keep up with it.” Rather than risk burning out, Kent made the bold choice to pause exports while he focused on expanding and strengthening his farm. That expansion was given a boost in July 2025 when the Pacific Agreement on Closer Economic Relations Plus (PACER Plus), through the Samoa Farmers Association, provided over WST$89,000 (AU$50,000) worth of farming and processing equipment to local farmers. Kent was among the 1,000 beneficiaries. The support included taro chippers, multi-use grinders, tillers, ground drillers, brush cutters, and chainsaws — all tools that turned Kent’s ambitions into achievable plans. “The equipment from PACER Plus came just when I needed it most,” Kent says. “It has lifted the pressure and helped me prepare for the next stage of exports.” But Kent’s story isn’t just about farming. It’s also about redefining what it means to be a farmer in the Pacific. Under the name Samoan Farmer, Kent has carved out a space online where he documents his journey. His YouTube channel has almost 17,000 subscribers, with thousands more following him on Facebook and Instagram. His videos blend farm tutorials with moments of candid honesty. They’ve struck a chord so much so that six Samoans have launched their own farms after watching Kent’s content. “That’s the best part. Knowing my story is inspiring others to start their own.” Kent Onesemo After a hard day’s work at the farm, Kent Onesemo is ready to transport some of his produce to the local market. What began as a way to share knowledge has also grown into a business. With his video production skills, Kent has created commercials for local companies, bringing in more than WST$50,000 in revenue. His website, www.samoanfarmer.com, now sells branded merchandise. Still, Kent’s focus remains on the bigger picture: using his journey to encourage young Samoan and Pacific people to embrace technology as a tool for growth. “We’re great at using social media for fun, but not enough for building skills or learning about financial literacy,” he says. “I want young Samoans to have a vision for themselves. To step out of their comfort zones and take chances.” Of course, farming isn’t without its challenges. There are days when the work feels too heavy, the market too demanding, or the weather too unforgiving. “But that’s when I push harder,” Kent explains. “It’s like driving up a steep hill — you’ve got to press the accelerator a little more to get over the top. Once you’re there, the view makes it worth it.” For Kent, the view is more than financial stability. It’s the pride of seeing his children run through the taro rows, the satisfaction of exporting Samoan produce to the world, and the knowledge that he is building something that others can follow. “You can never do this alone,” he says. “It takes family, community, and support like PACER Plus to make it possible.” -ENDS- More articles like this one
New Biosecurity Equipment to Support Tonga’s Trade and Food Safety Systems
NUKU’ALOFA, Tonga – Tonga’s ability to protect its people, environment, and trade is set to strengthen with the official handover of vital biosecurity and quarantine equipment funded by the PACER Plus trade agreement’s Development and Economic Cooperation (DEC) Work Program. The new tools — valued at AU$185,350 or TOP$288,003 — are designed to enhance Tonga’s sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) systems and include a digitised Quarantine Management Information System with IT infrastructure, a state-of-the-art fumigation chamber, protective gear, inspection tools, and an incinerator to safely manage imports and exports. Tonga’s Minister for Agriculture, Food and Forests, Hon. Siosiua Moala Halavatau (left) and the Head of the PACER Plus Implementation Unit, Mr. Roy Lagolago signs the Contribution Agreement during the official handover in Nuku’alofa, Tonga. This equipment will help Tonga meet international SPS standards, ensuring continued and expanded access to key export markets such as Australia and New Zealand. Minister for Agriculture, Food and Forests, Hon. Siosiua Moala Halavatau, welcomed the handover, describing it as a step forward for Tonga’s agricultural and trade sectors. “This is not just a handover of tools. It’s a handover of confidence for our farmers, for our exporters, and for our consumers. Tonga is committed to meeting the highest international standards for food safety and plant and animal health. With this support from PACER Plus, we are better equipped to ensure the quality and safety of our exports, protect our environment, and grow our economy.” Hon. Siosiua Moala Halavatau, Minister for Agriculture, Food and Forests Head of the PACER Plus Implementation Unit (PPIU), Mr. Roy Lagolago, praised the collaborative nature of the initiative. “The PPIU is proud to partner with PHAMA Plus in delivering the fumigation chamber, an important piece of infrastructure that will directly benefit Tongan exporters. This partnership recognises the work that PHAMA Plus is already doing in Tonga and also avoids duplication of efforts and resources. The PHAMA Plus work in facilitating market access for Pacific produce to Australia and New Zealand is important and is a conduit for increased trade under PACER Plus,” said Mr. Lagolago. Tonga’s Minister for Agriculture, Food and Forests, Hon. Siosiua Moala Halavatau (left) with the Head of the PACER Plus Implementation Unit, Mr. Roy Lagolago at the official handover in Nuku’alofa, Tonga. Tongan exporters, many of whom face strict market access requirements, say the equipment couldn’t come at a better time. “Our work involves exporting watermelon to New Zealand. Previously, we faced significant challenges with fumigation, often having to collaborate with another exporter for this process. This new equipment is a considerable asset because its large fumigation chamber will greatly expedite the fumigation process, making our work much more efficient.” Ms. Seini Tu’ivai, Senior Assistant Secretary for the Exporter Division at Tonga’s Ministry of Trade and Economic Development The handover forms part of PACER Plus’s mission to build sustainable capacity across the region, ensuring Pacific Island countries are not only connected to markets but also equipped to meet the standards and seize the opportunities that come with it. -ENDS- More articles like this one
Pacific Trade Strengthened as Regional Workshop Concludes in Honiara
HONIARA, Solomon Islands – The Pacific Regional Advanced Trade in Goods Workshop, a key event aimed at strengthening trade capacity in the Pacific, has successfully concluded. The three-day workshop, held from 12-14 August 2024, was organised through a partnership between the Australian Government’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) and the PACER Plus Implementation Unit (PPIU). Mr. Colin Beck (center), Permanent Secretary of Solomon Islands’ Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade with Mr. Andrew Schloeffel (fifth from left), Australian Deputy High Commissioner to Solomon Islands and government officials from PACER Plus Pacific countries at the Pacific Regional Advanced Trade in Goods Workshop in Honiara, Solomon Islands. The workshop brought together government officials from Cook Islands, Kiribati, Niue, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu, and Vanuatu to deepen their understanding of the rules-based trading system, World Trade Organisation (WTO) structures, agreements, and the challenges and opportunities they present to Pacific Island countries. Participants also explored the intricacies of multilateral and regional trade agreements, including PACER Plus, and their applications within the region. Mr. Colin Beck, Permanent Secretary of Solomon Islands’ Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade. In his opening remarks, Mr. Colin Beck, Permanent Secretary of Solomon Islands’ Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade, highlighted the significance of PACER Plus supporting customs automation and improvement in biosecurity measures in Solomon Islands. “PACER Plus has the potential to be a powerful tool for our development, but it is crucial that its initiatives are country-initiated and country-led. There is an opportunity to strengthen delivery of PACER Plus initiatives, ensuring it truly meets the needs of our people.” Colin Beck, Permanent Secretary of Solomon Islands’ Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade Mr. Andrew Schloeffel, Australian Deputy High Commissioner to Solomon Islands, highlighted the role of trade in driving sustainable growth and economic resilience in the Pacific. “Under PACER Plus, all member countries have tariff and quota-free access to Australia. This covers all product lines — 100 percent of products exported enter Australia duty-free. And this commitment will continue irrespective of the development status of each member country.” Andrew Schloeffel, Australian Deputy High Commissioner to Solomon Islands The workshop is part of broader capacity-building efforts for the Pacific region, designed to enhance the understanding of trade-related issues and support the economic integration of Pacific Island countries into the global trading system. -ENDS- More articles like this one
The Woman Behind Vanuatu’s First Certified Kava Export
PORT VILA, Vanuatu – In the highlands of Espiritu Santo, Vanuatu’s largest island, where kava farming has long been a man’s world, Sergine Tahun is rewriting the rules. The determined entrepreneur behind Tahun Kava Exports Limited has not only carved out a space for herself in a competitive industry but has also become the first woman-owned kava exporter in Santo to achieve the internationally recognised HACCP certification – a milestone that promises to open doors to global markets. For Sergine, the journey began with a simple frustration. “I used to source kava directly from farmers to resell locally, but I found myself constantly waiting for customers to pay,” she recalls. “I knew there had to be a better way.” That realisation led her to explore exporting – a path that required navigating complex regulations, building relationships with overseas buyers, and elevating her business to meet international standards. From Local Trade to Global Ambitions Determined to succeed, Sergine sought guidance from biosecurity officials to understand export requirements – everything from proper cleaning techniques to packaging standards. She also connected with families in New Caledonia who run nakamals (traditional kava bars), planting the seeds for future trade. “I wanted them to know my kava was different – premium quality, handled with care,” she says. Tahun Kava Exports Limited owner, Ms. Sergine Tahun (left), receives her HACCP Certificate from VCCI SANMA Provincial Officer, Ms. Candyce Simeon. But breaking into the industry wasn’t easy. “When I started, the market was tough. There was lots of competitors, few opportunities,” she admits. Yet, through persistence, Sergine refined her products, expanded her network, and gradually built trust with farmers in remote areas, where weather and logistics often disrupted supply chains. Her secret weapon? A dedicated farm manager, Govany Maleb, who bridges the gap between her and the predominantly male farming community. “He reassures them that even though a woman owns the business, I know what I’m doing,” Sergine laughs. Maleb doesn’t just collect kava – he supports farmers with nursery management and equipment, fostering loyalty in an industry where relationships are everything. The Balancing Act Running a business in a male-dominated field while raising a family hasn’t been simple. “As a wife and mother, there are days when it feels overwhelming,” Sergine confesses. Yet, her resolve never wavers. “I want to prove that women can thrive in this space – and that collaboration, not competition, is the way forward.” Kava farmers in Espiritu Santo. Running a business in a man-dominated industry comes with it’s challenges, says Sergine. “Even though a woman owns the business, I like to reassure the farmers that I know what I’m doing,” she laughs. Her perseverance paid off when PACER Plus, through the Vanuatu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VCCI), supported her in securing Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) certification – a game-changer for her business.. “This certification means everything,” Sergine says. “Before, buyers didn’t know us. Now, the enquiries are pouring in.” Since November 2024, she’s sent samples to international buyers, with eight shipments already dispatched between December 2024 and February 2025. Mr. Alipate Tavo, Trade Adviser with the PACER Plus Implementation Unit (PPIU), emphasises the significance of Tahun Kava’s achievement. “Sergine’s success isn’t just about one business – it’s a testament to what Pacific women can accomplish with the right support. Her certification lifts the entire sector, showing that Vanuatu’s kava can compete globally.” A Message to Pacific Women: “Dream Boldly” Sergine’s advice to other women is simple but powerful: “Don’t let social or cultural limits stop you. If you want something, go for it. Yes, it’s hard, but if I can do it, so can you.” With her eyes set on expanding into new markets and diversifying her product range, Tahun Kava Exports is proof that tradition and innovation can blend as smoothly as the drink she sells. And for the farmers of Espiritu Santo, that’s something worth raising a shell to. -ENDS- More articles like this one
Bottling the Fragrance of Samoa
How Mailelani is Turning Coconuts into Global Success The sweet scent of moso’oi (ylang-ylang) and rich cocoa butter hangs in the air as Sylvie Salanoa carefully inspects a fresh batch of coconut oil soap at her Mailelani Samoa Body Care gift shop outside Apia, Samoa. It’s a far cry from the humble beginnings 25 years ago when she and her husband Kitiona first dreamed of creating soap from Samoan coconuts in their family kitchen. “We started with one simple question,” Sylvie recalls, her hands holding a bar of their signature frangipani-scented soap. “How can we share the true essence of Samoa with the world?” Today, that question has blossomed into a thriving business with eight varieties of artisan soaps, luxurious body oils, exfoliating scrubs, and their newest triumph — a premium facial care line launched in early 2024 with support from the PACER Plus Agreement. From Kitchen Experiments to International Shelves The journey wasn’t without its challenges. “Oh, we wanted to give up many times!” Sylvie laughs. Early batches didn’t set properly. Supply chains were unpredictable. Export regulations seemed impossible to navigate. But through perseverance and community support, what began as a cottage industry now supplies retailers across Samoa, Australia, New Zealand and beyond. Each product tells a distinctly Samoan story. The cocoa range pays homage to the islands’ national drink. The delicate frangipani line celebrates the flower Samoan women traditionally wear behind their ears. The moso’oi captures the islands’ signature fragrance. “What makes Mailelani special is that we’re not just making products — we’re preserving culture,” Sylvie explains. “When someone uses our cocoa body butter, we want them to feel connected to Samoa’s rich traditions.” Rooted in Community, Growing Through Trade The business model is as sustainable as their ingredients. Mailelani sources raw materials from rural villages across Samoa, creating economic opportunities while maintaining authentic island recipes. This community-focused approach caught the attention of the PACER Plus Implementation Unit (PPIU). “Mailelani represents exactly what PACER Plus was designed to support. By assisting with their packaging clearance costs, we’re helping a homegrown business scale up while maintaining its cultural integrity. Their success shows how regional trade agreements can empower Pacific entrepreneurs to compete globally without compromising local values.” Alipate Tavo, PPIU Trade Adviser For Sylvie, the PACER Plus support came at the perfect moment. “That new facial line was our dream for years, but the import costs for proper packaging seemed impossible. When PACER Plus stepped in, it was confirmation from God telling us to ‘keep going’.” The Sweet Smell of Success While setting up her products, Sylvie reflects on the unexpected rewards of their quarter-century journey. “The creativity we’ve discovered, the people we’ve met, the places our little soaps have traveled — it’s more than we ever imagined.” She gently places a newly wrapped moso’oi soap into a gift box, ready for its journey to a boutique in Auckland. “Every time someone opens one of our products, they’re experiencing a piece of Samoa. That makes every challenge worthwhile.” With their expanded product line and growing international presence, Mailelani Samoa Body Care continues to prove that traditional wisdom and modern entrepreneurship can create something truly beautiful. Or as Sylvie puts it: “We’re not just selling soap — we’re sharing alofa (love) from our islands to the world.” Mailelani Samoa Body Care products are available at select retailers in Samoa and online by clicking here. Did You Know? Mailelani means “from heaven” in Samoan. All products are made with sustainably sourced local ingredients. The business supports dozens of rural Samoan families through its supply chain. -ENDS- More articles like this one
Customs officers upskill to improve cross border e-commerce
NADI, Fiji – Customs officials from 16 Pacific countries are gathering in Nadi, Fiji this week for a five-day workshop (17-21 March) to understand the World Customs Organisation (WCO) tools and initiatives aimed at facilitating and securing cross-border e-commerce. The workshop, co-hosted by the Oceania Customs Organisation (OCO) and the PACER Plus Implementation Unit (PPIU), brings together 25 participants from American Samoa, Australia, Cook Islands, Fiji, Papua New Guinea, Northern Marianas, Federated States of Micronesia, Kiribati, Niue, Nauru, Samoa, Solomon Islands, New Caledonia, Guam, Tonga and Tuvalu. Experts from Japan Customs are also co-facilitating the sessions. Customs officials from 16 Pacific countries are Fiji this week for a five-day workshop to understand the WCO tools and initiatives aimed at facilitating and securing cross-border e-commerce. “This workshop directly supports our mission to enhance economic integration and sustainable development in the Pacific through PACER Plus. While customs administrations address the regulatory aspects, PACER Plus is also focused on helping Parties to enhance legislative framework on ecommerce and support Pacific businesses seize the opportunities of digital trade. We are helping customs officers understand both sides of e-commerce thereby creating pathways for Pacific products to reach global markets while maintaining appropriate safeguards.” Roy Lagolago, Head of the PPIU E-commerce in the Pacific has grown by over fifty per cent since 2020, with around thirty per cent of Pacific Islanders now regularly shopping online, according to the Pacific E-commerce Assessment Report and the Pacific Regional E-commerce Strategy and Roadmap. A 2024 OCO Gap Analysis, supported by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) and funded by the European Union, showed that small parcel shipments to the region have increased by over 200 per cent in the past three years. Approximately 85 per cent of these packages are valued under US$100, posing challenges for customs administrations. Some major ports now process up to 5,000 small e-commerce parcels daily, as per WCO regional data. “As customs officials, our primary concern is implementing international standards that facilitate legitimate trade while protecting our borders. This workshop focuses on the eight guiding principles of the WCO Framework of Standards for Cross-Border E-Commerce, which provides our members with a harmonised approach to this growing trade channel.” Nancy T. Oraka, Head of Secretariat for OCO Participants visited the DHL facility in Nadi gaining a better understanding of e-commerce logistics and the partnership between customs and private sector players. This is the first regional workshop focused on building capacity for implementing the WCO Framework of Standards for Cross-Border E-Commerce in the Pacific context. Both PPIU and OCO are one of the implementing agencies of the Pacific Regional E-Commerce Strategy and Roadmap, under Priority Area Three on Trade Logistics and Trade Facilitation. Participants explored advanced processing systems to manage the surge in small consignments and targeted risk assessment methods to identify potentially dangerous or illegal shipments while ensuring the smooth flow of legitimate goods. They also examined strategies for applying effective, efficient, scalable and flexible revenue collection models for low-value imports, tailored to national circumstances – a key challenge for Pacific nations. The workshop featured insights from key stakeholders, including the WCO, Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat, UNCTAD, DHL Express, and Siuhuu Online Marketplace, highlighting the importance of public-private collaboration in cross-border e-commerce. Participants also visited the DHL facility in Nadi gaining a better understanding of e-commerce logistics and the partnership between customs and private sector players. Drawing from their experiences and challenges, participants will develop national and regional action plans to guide OCO members in their implementation of international standards for cross-border e-commerce. “The knowledge and strategies developed during this workshop will strengthen not just individual administration but our collective regional approach to e-commerce,” added Ms. Oraka. “As our digital economy continues to grow, customs administrations must evolve to facilitate legitimate trade while addressing emerging risks.” -ENDS- More articles like this one
PACER Plus Talanoa Concludes with Commitments to Strengthen Pacific Economies
APIA, Samoa – The Pacific Agreement on Closer Economic Relations (PACER) Plus Implementation Unit (PPIU) hosted the second Revenue Mobilisation Talanoa for PACER Plus Signatories this week in Apia, Samoa. The Talanoa brought together senior officials from customs, tax administrations, and finance ministries across the Pacific to address the challenges and opportunities of revenue mobilisation in the context of trade liberalisation under PACER Plus. Representatives from the Cook Islands, Kiribati, Niue, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu, and Nauru attended the four-day event, which ran from 25-28 February 2025. Representatives from the Cook Islands, Kiribati, Niue, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu, and Nauru attended the four-day Talanoa, which ran from 25-28 February 2025. The Talanoa, which follows the inaugural Revenue Mobilisation Talanoa held in Nadi, Fiji, in February 2024, focused on improving indirect revenue mobilisation through efficient taxation, broadening the tax base, and closing the tax gap. Participants explored short-term actions and long-term structural reforms needed to enhance revenue administration and collection. Mr. Alipate Tavo, Trade Adviser at PPIU and moderator of the workshop, highlighted the importance of the Talanoa in addressing the region’s unique challenges. “The PACER Plus Agreement has brought economic opportunities to the Pacific, but it has also highlighted the need for robust revenue mobilisation strategies. This Talanoa has been a critical platform for sharing experiences, identifying best practices, and developing actionable plans to ensure that our countries can adapt to the changing economic landscape while maintaining fiscal stability.” Mr. Alipate Tavo For Samoa, where customs duties account for a significant portion of government revenue, the stakes are particularly high. Mr. Magotaamu Salanoa, the Principal Customs Officer-Trade with Samoa’s Ministry of Customs and Revenue, stressed the importance of collaboration and knowledge-sharing. “Samoa, like many Pacific countries, relies on customs duties for revenue. The discussions here have been invaluable in helping us identify practical solutions to mitigate revenue losses while exploring new opportunities to diversify our tax base. The insights gained from this Talanoa will guide our efforts to strengthen Samoa’s economic resilience.” Mr. Magotaamu Salanoa Ms. Pipiena Tanaki, the Deputy CEO of Tonga’s Ministry of Revenue and Customs. Ms. Pipiena Tanaki, the Deputy CEO of Tonga’s Ministry of Revenue and Customs, shared her perspective on the role of technology in improving revenue collection. “Modernising our customs systems and leveraging technology is important for improving efficiency and accuracy in revenue collection. This workshop has reinforced the importance of investment in capacity building and digital solutions to address the administrative gaps in our tax systems.” Ms. Pipiena Tanaki The workshop featured sessions on key topics such as the role of customs administrations in collecting Value Added Tax (VAT) and Goods and Services Tax (GST), the impact of trade liberalisation on revenue, and strategies for optimising revenue through tax policies. Understanding the impacts of tax expenditures on revenue collection and good tax administration practice to improve revenue collection were also covered. Additionally, participants discussed the challenges of cross-border e-commerce, valuation issues, and the need for regional cooperation to address complex revenue mobilisation challenges. The Revenue Mobilisation Talanoa has been organised in collaboration with the Pacific Financial Technical Assistance Center, the Pacific Islands Tax Administration Association, the Oceania Customs Organisation, and the International Monetary Fund. “As we implement PACER Plus, our customs administrations must evolve to meet new revenue collection challenges. This Talanoa provides a vital platform for Pacific customs agencies to share practical solutions and strengthen our regional approach to revenue mobilisation while facilitating trade modernisation.” Ms. Nancy Oraka, Head of the Oceania Customs Organisation (OCO). The Revenue Mobilisation Talanoa has been organised in collaboration with the Pacific Financial Technical Assistance Center, the Pacific Islands Tax Administration Association, the OCO, and the International Monetary Fund. The workshop’s outcomes will contribute to the development of a comprehensive roadmap for revenue mobilisation across the Pacific, ensuring that PACER Plus signatories can continue to fund essential services while promoting economic growth. The Talanoa, which concluded today (28 February), provided an opportunity to explore revenue mobilisation in the context of the impacts of PACER Plus but the need for revenue to fund the social and economic needs of countries is ever present. -END- More articles like this one
Tuvalu customs transformation success
Tuvalu has made significant strides in improving its customs processes with the support of PACER Plus. With the introduction of the ASYCUDA World system, Tuvalu has transformed how it manages customs. Ms. Sania Teisini (middle), Director of Tuvalu’s Department of Revenue and Customs. “What used to take days to assess and clear customs entries now takes less than 24 hours,” Ms. Sania Teisini, Director of Tuvalu’s Department of Revenue and Customs explained. ASYCUDA World has also enhanced transparency and accuracy, proving clear, detailed records of transactions. Implementing this system required legislative updates, which PACER Plus supported through national consultations. Additionally, PACER Plus supported customs staff training in the harmonised system and Rules of Origin, boosting their expertise and operational capacity. Aerial view of Tuvalu. With ASYCUDA World, Tuvalu has surpassed its revenue targets by nine percent, collecting AU$12 million in 2023. “PACER Plus has been immensely beneficial for Tuvalu and her people,” said Ms. Teisini. “It’s always a comfort to know that PACER Plus is always there.” -ENDS- More articles like this one
Tonga’s Standardisation Roadmap to Enhance Quality and Trade
NUKU’ALOFA, Tonga – The Consumer Protection and Fair-Trade Division under the Ministry of Trade and Economic Development in Tonga, in collaboration with Standards Australia, has launched the Tonga Standardisation Roadmap. This initiative aims to address the absence of a dedicated national standards body in Tonga and improve the quality of locally produced, imported, and local services. Currently, Tonga lacks a national standard body responsible for developing standards, leading to the adoption rather than the development of standards across sectors. This lack of coordination has resulted in inefficiencies and suboptimal quality of products available for consumption. Consequently, Tonga and other Pacific Island countries risk becoming dumping grounds for substandard products and appliances, while local exporters face technical barriers to trade in overseas markets. Tonga’s Minister for Trade and Economic Development, Hon. Dr. Viliami Latu (second from left) holding the Tonga Standardisation Roadmap with Australia’s High Commissioner to Tonga, H.E. Brek Batley (far right) and New Zealand’s Deputy High Commissioner to Tonga, H.E. Leitu Sa (far left). The Tonga Standardisation Roadmap, developed with financial support from the Pacific Agreement on Closer Economic Relations (PACER) Plus, was officially launched in Tonga’s capital, Nuku’alofa, on 19 June 2024. The roadmap was created through extensive collaboration between Tonga’s Ministry of Trade and Economic Development (MTED) and Standards Australia, incorporating input from over 80 stakeholders from both the public and private sectors. The launch event was attended by Tonga’s Minister for Trade and Economic Development, Hon. Dr. Viliami Latu; Australia’s High Commissioner to Tonga, H.E. Brek Batley; New Zealand’s Deputy High Commissioner to Tonga, H.E. Leitu Sa; Head of PACER Plus Implementation Unit, Mr. Roy Lagolago; and Standards Australia’s Chief Development Officer, Mr. Adam Singemore. Dr. Viliami Latu emphasised the importance of the roadmap, stating, “The roadmap aligns with the rules-based national trading system and Tonga’s obligations under the PACER Plus agreement. It also supports the Tonga Trade Policy Framework 2017-2025, which outlines the need to develop Tonga’s quality infrastructure to ensure the safety of imports and domestic production, and to facilitate Tongan exports in larger markets.” He added, “By implementing the roadmap, we can expect numerous benefits, including increased innovation, enhanced economic growth, improved consistency in the quality of goods and services, improved safety for consumers and workers, and increased competitiveness for Tongan businesses in the global market.” The roadmap sets a 10-year plan with recommendations for improving Tonga’s standardisation ecosystem in alignment with international best practices. These recommendations offer an opportunity to enhance standards functions in Tonga, supporting the private sector, policymakers, and the public. -ENDS- More articles like this one