Shopping in Vanuatu offers a unique cultural experience that goes far beyond traditional souvenirs. 

Shopping

Vanuatu: a South Pacific shopping paradise. Explore the duty-free shops, local markets, and hidden treasures, blending culture with international goods for a memorable experience.

Explore the vibrant local markets, such as those in Port Vila and Luganville, where you can find a variety of handcrafted goods made by local artisans. From intricately woven baskets and mats to beautifully carved wooden sculptures, these items showcase the rich heritage of the islands.

Don’t miss the opportunity to sample or purchase locally made products like Gaston chocolat and Tanna Coffee, perfect for bringing a taste of Vanuatu back home.

Artisan Markets

Artisanal markets also offer handmade jewellery, pottery, and colourful textiles, all reflecting the vibrant spirit of the island communities. By shopping locally, visitors not only take home a piece of Vanuatu’s culture but also support the livelihoods of the island’s talented craftspeople.

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Duty Free

Vanuatu also offers an interesting duty-free shopping experience. If you wish to make duty-free purchases, you have three options:
1. Shop at the airport on the day of your arrival in Vanuatu. You then choose to import duty-free goods into Vanuatu, within a certain limit.
2. With your passport and departure ticket, shop at a downtown duty-free store (Fung Kuei, Paris Shopping, etc.) at least 24 hours before your return flight’s departure time. You will collect your purchases at the airport on the day of your departure from Vanuatu.
3. Shop at the airport on the day of your departure from Vanuatu, in the duty-free zone. Please check your destination country's duty-free import limits.

Frequently Asked Questions

Popular buys include woven bags and mats, wood carving, jewellery, coffee, chocolate, spices, virgin coconut oil and other Vanuatu Made goods. Markets are best for food and everyday crafts; town shops and hotel boutiques carry packaged products that travel home more easily. Buy from local makers when you can. Check biosecurity rules before packing food or plant products.
Markets are cash, conversational and focused on fresh produce and handmade pieces. Retail stores in Port Vila and Luganville take cards more often and stock clothing, groceries and packaged souvenirs. Duty-free shopping is a separate airport or downtown option if you are leaving the country. Use markets for atmosphere; use shops when you need reliable hours or something sealed for the flight home.
Look for Vanuatu Made items that keep value on the islands: island chocolate, Tanna or Santo coffee, spices, coconut oil, woven baskets and carving bought from the maker. These are useful, packable and support growers and artisans rather than imported trinkets. Ask where something was made if you are unsure. Leave room in the suitcase for a market find.