Prime Minister Hon Alatoi Ishmael Kalsakau has officially launched the new company VANUEX LTD on 7^th February 2023, which will be conducting business/trade through Digital technology. He has pointed out that the International Monetary Fund (IMF) economic outlook is within the same level of Digital transformation.

Most country’s economy are moving towards Digital and Vanuatu is going in the same direction.

The announcement was made along side MP Jessy Luo, MP for Malekula Hon Anatole Hymak and Minister of Agriculture Hon Nako Natuman.

4 billion VT projects to be funded from Chinese funds that were never used. Prime Minister Hon Alatoi Ishmael Kalsakau Maau’koro has announced a total of 4 billion projects from the aid money that was never utilised by the previous government. The 2 billion for 2021 will be injected into road projects for Efate and Santo while a further 2 million for 2022 will be go towards the construction of a new school of nursing collage in Santo and up grading health facilities.

The Prime Minister made the announcement after signing off all documentations that were later dispatched to Chinese Embassy last week. When he came into office after his election as PM, he found out that 2 billion Chinese grand for 2021 and another 2 million for 2022 was never put to use. The Prime Minister Maau’koro said it is best to target only two islands and make an impact and move to other islands next. This does not mean the government has ignored other islands completely under this grand. We have 2023 and 2024 still to be utilised and the Public Works will still continue working on our roads.

A joint operation between local law enforcement agencies and international partners on August 7^th has resulted in the seizure of a significant quantity of illicit substance on a yacht in Torba province. A suspicious vessel and its crew have been detained, and investigations are underway.

The operation involved a collaborative effort between multiple agencies, including law enforcement and customs officials. The vessel, its crew, and cargo were thoroughly searched, leading to the discovery and seizure of the illicit substance.

The investigation has received support from international partners, who will provide specialist technical capabilities to assist with further investigations. Investigations are continuing, with authorities working to determine the full extent of the illicit activity.

Drug trafficking and drug trans-shipment has recently increased in the region; therefore, the public is encouraged to report any suspicious activities to law enforcement authorities, highlighting the importance of community involvement in maintaining national security.

The Government, and the Police authorities in Port Vila acknowledge the efforts of all agencies and partners involved in the operation and look forward to their continued collaboration in combating transnational organized crime.

Port Vila, Vanuatu – 22^nd August 2025- The Government of Vanuatu is launching its National Anti-Money Laundering/Counter Financing of Terrorism/Combating the Financing of Proliferation (AML/CTF/CPF) Strategy, National Risk Assessment (NRA), and the Mutual Evaluation Technical Team (METT).

This marks a significant milestone in Vanuatu's commitment to protecting its financial system, promoting transparency, and ensuring sustainable economic growth.

The National Risk Assessment has identified key threats to Vanuatu's financial system, including corruption, transnational money laundering, and fraud. In response, the Government temporarily suspended the Citizenship by Investment Program earlier this year and will conduct a full review to ensure the programs align with Vanuatu’s national interests and international obligations.

"We are committed to building a resilient, transparent financial ecosystem that supports growth and inclusion," said Prime Minister Jotham Napat. "This strategy is not just for regulators—it is for every citizen, every business, and every institution that values integrity."

The National AML/CTF/CPF Strategy sets out ten strategic priorities, including:

• Risk-based supervision of financial institutions and Designated Non-Financial Businesses and Professions (DNFBPs)
• Enhanced cross-agency information sharing and coordination
• Targeted capacity building, training, and public outreach
• Strengthened customer due diligence and ‘know-your-client’ measures
• Improved asset tracing, seizure, and confiscation procedures

The Mutual Evaluation Technical Team will lead preparations for the Asia-Pacific Group onsite evaluation in November 2026, ensuring that Vanuatu is well-prepared to demonstrate its commitment to transparency and compliance.

"A successful APG mutual evaluation will affirm our reputation as a transparent, well-regulated jurisdiction, unlock new investment, strengthen tourism and trade, and ensure that Vanuatu remains a trusted partner on the world stage," said Prime Minister Napat.

The Government of Vanuatu looks forward to working with its international partners, stakeholders, and citizens to build a secure, transparent, and globally respected financial centre.