Here in our archipelago, skills and techniques are passed down through generations. Materials can travel long distances from Vanuatu’s many islands to make these special items.

To promote and preserve these unique aspects, the "Vanuatu Made" initiative was launched. This initiative aims to highlight and support products that are authentically produced in Vanuatu. Here's everything you need to know about Vanuatu Made products, how to identify them, their benefits, and how to find out more.

 

The Purpose of Vanuatu Made

The primary purpose of the Vanuatu Made initiative is to support local artisans, farmers, and producers by promoting products that are genuinely made in Vanuatu. This helps to preserve traditional skills and crafts.  The products are authentically made locally with passion and generations of practice and from rich, nutritious recourses. Every product with the Vanuatu Made symbol supports our local people and their businesses – improving their lives and community.

Additionally, the initiative aims to enhance the visibility of Vanuatu's unique products on the international stage, showcasing the country's rich cultural heritage and natural resources.

 

How to Identify Vanuatu Made Products

Products that are certified as "Vanuatu Made" are easy to identify, thanks to a distinctive logo that signifies authenticity and quality. The logo features traditional Vanuatu motifs and is prominently displayed on packaging, labels, or tags of certified products. When you see this logo, you can be assured that the product meets the standards set by the Vanuatu Made initiative and is a genuine creation of local artisans or producers.

 

 

The Benefits of Buying Vanuatu Made

1. Supporting Local Economy: By purchasing Vanuatu Made products, you are directly contributing to the livelihoods of local producers, artisans, and farmers. This support helps sustain the local economy and encourages the growth of small businesses.
   
   
2. Preserving Culture and Traditions: Many Vanuatu Made products are crafted using traditional techniques passed down through generations. Buying these products helps preserve these invaluable cultural practices and keeps them alive for future generations.
   
   
3. Sustainable and Eco-friendly: Local products are often made using sustainable methods and natural materials sourced from the islands. This minimizes environmental impact and promotes eco-friendly practices.
   
   
4. Authenticity and Quality: Vanuatu Made products are known for their authenticity and high quality. Whether it's handwoven baskets, traditional carvings, organic coffee, or pure coconut oil, these products reflect the true essence of Vanuatu.

 

 

List of Vanuatu Made product 

1. Coffee

You will find three major coffee producers in Vanuatu.

The first one, Tanna Coffee, is grown on the fertile volcanic soils of Tanna Island. Vanuatu’s premium coffee beans are renowned for their rich flavor and organic cultivation. You can visit the roastery and café located on Devil’s Point Road on Efate. There, you can learn about the entire coffee-making process and enjoy a tasting on site.

The second coffee is also grown on Tanna Island by the NGO Nasituan, which helps communities produce coffee whose profits go entirely to the community. Tanna Gardens Coffee has a mild bitterness and pleasant acidity. You can enjoy a coffee on-site in Tanna, which helps support the NGO in a meaningful way. For more information: http://www.nasituan.org/

Finally, the third producer is Aoré Coffee, produced on the island of Aore, just a short boat ride from Santo. Aoré Coffee is known for its rich aroma and smooth taste, harvested in the lush environment of the island. You can also visit the production site.

Where to buy coffee:
You can buy directly from the producers by visiting their roastery in Tanna, Santo, or Efate.

It is also possible to purchase local coffee at markets, certain supermarkets, at Organic Paradise or Wild Harvest in Port Vila, at the LCM shop in Luganville, or even duty-free.

2. Cocoa and Chocolate

Vanuatu is home to some of the finest cocoa in the South Pacific. You will mainly find two chocolate manufacturers in Port Vila:

• Aelan Chocolate, produced by a women's association called 'Activ'. It is possible to take a tour of the factory and learn more about all the stages of making a chocolate bar. For more information: https://aelanchocolate.com/
• Gaston Chocolat, which produces its chocolate directly from its downtown boutique in Port Vila. In addition to being enveloped by the smell of cocoa as soon as you enter, you can sit at the boutique café and try one of their delicious pastries. For more information: https://www.gastonchocolat.com/

Where to buy Vanuatu chocolate: directly at the Gaston Chocolat boutique or during a visit to Aelan. Otherwise, you can find their products in the markets, in some supermarkets, duty-free, or at Organic Paradise in Port Vila.

3. Nuts

Locally grown nuts, such as peanuts or the famous nangae nut (a local variety of almond) are often processed into snacks and sold in markets and shops across Vanuatu. Look for them in local supermarkets or small roadside stands.

4. Chutneys and Jams

Made from locally grown fruits like mango, papaya,coconut, tamarind… Vanuatu’s chutneys and jams offer a taste of the islands. You can find these in local markets and supermarkets, and gourmet food shops such as Wild Harvest & Organic paradise as well as in duty free shops. 

5. Cookies

Vanuatu’s locally made cookies, often featuring ingredients like coconut and ginger, can be found in supermarkets, at Organic Paradise & Wild Harvest and in duty free shops. These sweet treats are perfect for enjoying during your stay or bringing back home as a souvenir.

6. Juices

Freshly made tropical fruit juices from mango, pineapple, lemon and ginger are available at local markets and cafes, at Organic Paradise, Wild Harvest & duty free shops, offering visitors a refreshing taste of Vanuatu’s natural bounty.

7. Vanuatu Wild Honey

Produced by bees in Vanuatu’s lush, tropical environment, Vanuatu wild honey is a sweet treat available at local markets and specialty food shops as well as duty free shops. It’s often sold alongside other natural products like nuts and jams.

8. Spices

Vanuatu’s rich volcanic soil produces high-quality spices like vanilla, turmeric, ginger and pepper. These spices are available in local markets and specialised food stores as well as duty frees and make excellent gifts or souvenirs.

9. Coconut Oil

Virgin coconut oil, produced by local farmers, is one of Vanuatu’s most versatile products. Used for cooking, skincare, and even haircare, you’ll find coconut oil at markets, health shops, and beauty stores across Vanuatu as well as specialised food stores & duty frees, particularly in Port Vila.

10. Liquors & spirits

Vanuatu is known for its locally distilled liquors, including rum and other spirits infused with tropical flavours. There are two main producers for liquors & spirits, located in Port Vila: 

• 83 islands, located on Second lagoon, Port Vila. You can do a tour of the distillery and end it with a tasting. 83 islands specialise in rum but they also produce gin, limoncello, coffee infused liquors… More information: https://83islands.com/ 
• Vanuatu craft association, located on Mele road. They sell a range of different products including jams, vinegars, coffee & chocolate liquors as well many different spirits with surprising flavours.

Where to buy liquors & spirits: you can buy them directly from the producers shop or you can also buy them in supermarkets, at Organic paradise, Wild harvest or in duty free shops.

11. Tusker Beer

For a refreshing taste of the islands, Vanuatu’s Tusker Beer is a must-try. Available in most bars, restaurants, and supermarkets, Tusker is Vanuatu’s locally brewed beer, known for its light and crisp taste. You can buy Tusker in any supermarket in Vanuatu or in duty free shops.

12. Vanuatu Kava

Vanuatu is famous for its kava, a traditional drink made from the root of the kava plant. Known for its relaxing properties, kava is widely available at kava bars, local markets, and even packaged for tourists to take home from specialty shops in Port Vila and Luganville. You can ultimately buy kava either in powder or in can in duty free shops.

13. Tamanu Oil

A natural wonder for skincare, tamanu oil is prized for its healing and regenerative properties. You can purchase this miracle oil in beauty shops and health stores, particularly in Port Vila, and it is often included in local beauty products.

14. Sandalwood Products

Vanuatu’s sandalwood is renowned for its fragrant aroma and quality. You can find sandalwood oils, carvings, and incense at artisan markets and gift shops across the islands, with Port Vila being a primary location.

15. Handicrafts (Baskets, Mats, Jewelry)

Traditional Vanuatu handicrafts, such as woven baskets, mats, and jewelry, are made from local materials like pandanus and coconut fiber. These beautiful, handcrafted items can be found at open-air markets like the Port Vila Market and local artisan shops such as Pandanus, Bio-concept and Organic paradise.

16. Carvings

Beautiful hand-carved wooden artefacts, depicting traditional symbols and motifs, are a reflection of Vanuatu’s rich culture and craftsmanship. Carvings are available at local artisan galleries & markets throughout the islands of Vanuatu. When in Port Vila, a good place is the mamas market located on the waterfront. The most popular artefact to get is a little wooden pig. It is known to bring luck and money.

17. Fashion & Island Attires

From traditional island attire such as woven skirts to modern tropical fashion, Vanuatu’s locally made clothing is vibrant and stylish. You’ll find these pieces at local boutiques and markets, with a focus on using natural materials and island-inspired designs.

18. Beauty Products (Soaps, Skincare, Haircare)

Vanuatu is home to a range of natural beauty products made from local ingredients such as coconut oil, tamanu oil, and sandalwood. You’ll find these organic soaps, skincare, and haircare products in beauty stores such as Organic earth in Port vila, in local markets, at organic Paradise and Wild Harvest & in duty free shops.

19. Perfume

This luxury perfume is crafted in Vanuatu, capturing the tropical and floral scents of the islands. You can find Eau des Îles perfume in upscale boutiques and gift shops, primarily in Port Vila.

 

How to Find Out More

If you want to learn more about Vanuatu Made products, you can visit the website : https://www.vanuatumade.com.vu/

Tourist Information Centers often have information on Vanuatu Made products and can guide you to places where you can purchase authentic local goods.

Events and Festivals: Participating in local events and festivals is an excellent opportunity to explore and buy Vanuatu Made products. These events often feature stalls and demonstrations by local artisans and producers.