Vanuatu Plant Import Specification Manual Consultant 

PACER Plus Implementation Unit (PPIU) 

The PACER Plus Implementation Unit (PPIU) is seeking a qualified consultant or consultancy firm to undertake a comprehensive review and update of the Vanuatu Plant Import Specification Manual. This six-month assignment will support Biosecurity Vanuatu to strengthen its plant import regulatory framework by ensuring import requirements are current, risk-based, scientifically justified, and aligned with international phytosanitary standards. The consultancy will be primarily remote, with travel to Vanuatu required during the assignment.  

Preference will be given to Vanuatu nationals and Vanuatu-based consultancy firms. Where the required expertise is not available nationally, suitably qualified regional or international consultants with demonstrated experience in plant biosecurity and phytosanitary systems may be considered. 

About the Role 

The Consultant will work closely with Biosecurity Vanuatu, the PACER Plus Implementation Unit (PPIU), and relevant stakeholders to review and update the Vanuatu Plant Import Specification Manual. The assignment will ensure that plant import requirements reflect current pest and disease risks, trade pathways, pest risk analysis principles, and relevant International Standards for Phytosanitary Measures (ISPMs).  

The Consultant will undertake a technical review of existing plant import specifications, import permits, operating procedures and associated phytosanitary measures, identify gaps and inconsistencies, and develop a revised Plant Import Specification Manual. The assignment will also include stakeholder consultation, development of practical implementation tools and guidance materials, and delivery of targeted capacity building for Biosecurity Vanuatu officials.  

The successful Consultant will prepare an Inception Report and Work Plan, develop draft and revised versions of the Manual, produce supporting implementation documents and tools, and deliver training to support the ongoing application and maintenance of the revised Manual.  

The consultancy is expected to commence in October 2026 and conclude by March 2027. The Consultant will report to the Trade in Goods Adviser at the PPIU and work closely with Biosecurity Vanuatu throughout the assignment.  

Qualifications and Experience 

Applicants should possess: 

• A postgraduate qualification in plant biosecurity, plant pathology, entomology, plant protection, phytosanitary science, pest risk analysis, agricultural science, or a related field. 

• At least 10 years of relevant professional experience in plant biosecurity, phytosanitary measures, pest risk analysis, plant import requirements, or related SPS disciplines. 

• Demonstrated experience reviewing or developing plant import specifications, import requirements, pest risk assessments, or similar phytosanitary regulatory instruments. 

• Strong knowledge of the International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC) and International Standards for Phytosanitary Measures (ISPMs). 

• Experience developing technical manuals, operational procedures, guidance materials and capacity-building programmes. 

• Experience working in Pacific Island countries or similar small-island contexts is highly desirable.  

How to Apply 

Interested consultants and consultancy firms are encouraged to apply through the PPIU website. Applicants should submit: 

• A technical proposal outlining their approach and methodology; 

• Curriculum Vitae (maximum 5 pages for lead consultant); 

• Contact details of three referees. 

A detailed Terms of Reference is available here. 

Applications close at 12pm (Apia time) Friday 25 September 2026. 

PPIU is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to child protection. We encourage applications from women, men and people living with disabilities.